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The NEBLINE Newsletter Archive from UNL Extension in Lancaster County Extension

8-1994

The NEBLINE, August 1994 The NEBLINE, August 1994

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Why recycle plastic? Recycling plastic:

• saves landfill space. • saves resources, like petroleum.

What do recycled plastics become? • Clear #2 milk and juice jugs become plastic lumber, drainage

pipes, and household goods. • Plastic # 1 bottles Q,yoomecilrpetirrg;il1sulative filler for

clothing or sleeping 9~~s, sweaters, and oHler plastic products.

. " ... .

': ::::", .. .

Why don't the Lincoln recycling dr9P~off centers 39cept #2 white or colored plastics?

Lincoln does not have a market for these. If collected, they would reduce the ",alue of our dear #2 plastics because they would be considered a confaminanLThey ha\t~ ~slightly different melting point, as well as dyes that our market does not want at this time. The recyclers to whom we sell the plastic are very specific' about the type they can use. '

How should I prepare plastic recyclables? 1. Remove plastic or metal top and neck band. These are

contaminants that do not melt at the same temperature that the desired plastic does. The metal may damage equipment for manu-

"" 'rncturing plastic; , , ,"',I>e, _,~, ~ 2. Rinse container. Remember to save on the water'! 3. Crush container. This saves space, so we can collect more in

the recycling bin. (LB)

The mission of the University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension ill Lallcaster County is to help people address issues and needs related to their economic, social and ellvironmental well­being through educational programs based upon scientific knowledge.

Look in this box each month to spot articles addressing Extension' priority initiatives. Specific program areas are highlighted with a cor­responding icon.

Agricultural Competitiveness and Profitability "Insect Management for August" -page 3

Natural Resources and Environmental Management "Waterwise" -page 4

Children, Youth and Families "A 4-H Multifamily Affair" - page 1 and' 11

Nutrition, Food Safety and Quality IIFood Safety for Temporary Food ... IF -page 7

Strengthening Lancaster County Communities UWhat's Your Leadership Style"-page 5

A 4-H multifamily affair I'D Ann Marie Moravec ~ Extension Assistant

In search of a NEBLlNE feature story, I found myself driving to Cheney to attend a garage sale. A garage sale, you say? Well, this was no ordinary sale! Huge signs placed at intervals along Highway 2 directed me to a "Multifamily Garage Sale." A yard full of items greeted me as I arrived at my destination. One of my first thoughts was, "If each of these items could talk-what could they tell me about this special family?"

The three-generation family of Marvin and Darlene Navratil greeted me as I rounded the corner of their home. I hadn't spent much time with them before I realized this was a family with many exceptional qualities-some of which had been developed through their association with programs of Cooperative Extension. The garage sale was just one manifes­tation of the ways in which this family worked together in produc­tive activities-giving them a chance to be togetherand,kave some fun.

Family is important to the Navratils. 4-H and other Extension activities have helped them develop family traditions over the years. Although Darlene and Marv were not involved in 4-H as youngsters, they've certainly had a chance to try many projects through their children and grandchildren. Actually, Darlene was a 4-H club leader for over ten years and has been a member of a Family Community Education

.. Club (formerly Home Extension Club) for 34 years. Nineteen years working as office manager at the Extension office gave Darlene an inside track on Extension activi­ties. She's also been a long time volunteer at the Lancaster County Fair. "Meeting people and building friendships" are the biggest benefits of being actively in­volved, according to Darlene. Of course, Marv has always been there to support these 4-H/Exten­sion activities throughout the years.

Darlene and Marv have passed on the tradition. I had the chance this hot July day to visit with other family members before the garage sale opened. Through our conver-

The extended family Navratil family. Pictured (top left to right) are Ron, Connie, Dan, Kim, Bonnie and Cal Paschold, Sue and Ken. (Bottom left to right) Sarah and Jennifer Paschold, Jessica, Marv, Erika Pasch old, Darlene, Alan, Tina and Katie.

sation it was obvious that 4-H has been and continues to be an important part of their lives. Ron and Connie Navratil and their daughters, Tina and Katie, are an active 4-H family. Ron was a 4-H member for ten years and has also

. beel} a lead~r. He felt that "leader­ship opportunities, the speech contest, and activities with other kids" are the most beneficial to him. Tina and Katie have been involved in 4-H for eight and three years respectively. Tina is involved in many 4-H activities, but finds that "travel experiences are the best." She attended Citizenship Washington Focus in 1993 and said it was a great "educational, friendly and memorable experi­ence." Katie gave a simple, yet profound answer to the question about what she likes best about 4-H. "'Decorate Your Duds' is my favorite because it lets you be creative."

Darlene and Marv's daughter, Bonnie, is married to Cal Paschold. Their family had lots of things to tell me about how 4-H has worked in their lives. Cal was a 4-H member for ten years and was part of very successful judging teams coached by Emery Nelson. Bonnie was also a ten­year 4-H member and has served as a project leader, and was an Extension Educator in Seward, Saline and Jefferson Counties for four years. "Family activities" are what Bonnie values the most in 4-H. She said, "Iri today's hurry-

up and rush world, I see the importance of teaching solid, basic homemaking skills. 4-H projects can be a starting point for teaching these necessary life skills." Their daughters, Jennifer and Sarah, are both 4-H members. These bright yOl,Ulg l.a:ili.~s toldrne ~t,~w<? . words described 4-H to them: "educational and creative." Even

. at a very young age they seem to understand what 4-H is all about. Ericka, their seven-year-old sister is waiting to join this 4-H family tradition.

Ken, another of the Navratil sons is married to Sue. Ken, a ten­year 4-H member employs skills he learned in woodworking and electricity projects in his job' as a carpenter and remodeler. He's shared his skills with others as a 4-H leader.

Alan Navratil, age 8, grandson of Marv and Darlene and the son of Dan and Kim Navratil is in his first year of 4-H and his sister, Jessica, 5, is waiting until she's old enough to join in the fun. Dan was a ten-year 4-H member and was most active in agriculture related projects.

I had a great time sitting in the kitchen with this extended family as they talked and laughed about their experiences. Although a few of them had never been 4-H members, it was apparent that they still shared the knowledge. Connie said that although she was never in 4-H, she was able to learn with her

Turn to Multifamily: page 10

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University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension in Lancaster County 444 Cherrycreek Road

Non-Profit Organization U,S, Postage Paid Permit No, 537

Lincoln, Nebraska Lincoln, Nebraska 68528-1507

CAR-RT SORT POST At PATRON

~1"'UCa ,n furtherance of Coop"rat"", Extension work, Acts afMay 2, and June 30, '9'4, In cGG~elatlan with the U,S: Department of Agriculture Kenneth R, Bolen, D rector of Cooperative Extension, U~'vors'tv of Nebrasko IlIstltUtD of Agriculture ana Natural Resources, ~ It IS thc poliCY of the Unive'Silyol Nebraska Llnccln Institute or Agnculture ,)nd Natural Resou(ces not to d,scnmlnate on the baSIS of sex, age, handicap, race, color, religion, marital status, veteran s status, national or ethniC on91n or sexual onontatlon,

Page 2 TheNEBLINE August 1994

This onels a winner. Horticulture

Starting a lawn from seed

Kristin McHale exhibited the "Best of Show" display at the 4-H Pre-Fair Flower and Vegetable Show. Her exhibit was Burpee's string­less green beans. While the exhibits were being judged, a workshop was held on exhibiting vegetables at the fair, judging vegetables and fruit identification. This workshop will help prepare 4-Hers for the hor­ticulture contest on July 14 and in exhibiting at the Lancaster County Fair in August. (MJM)

open house Plan to attend the Festival of

Color, Saturday, September 10, 1994, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This lawn and garden open house is sponsored by the University of Nebraska Department of Horticul­ture. A Festival of Color will be held at the John Seaton Anderson T urfgrass and Ornamental Research Facility, located south- . east of Mead, Nebraska.

The best time to plant grass se'ed is from late August to early September. Spring and fall provide favorable growing conditions for cool season lawn grasses. Seeding in late summer provides two peak growth seasons before the new lawn must experience a period of hot, dry summer weather. Early spring seedings are not as successfuL The grass plants do not have enough time to get wen established before hot summer weather.

Grass seed can be spread fertilizer spreader. Use seed per 1000 square feet rake over the seeded area soil surface. Next, cover straw, using one bale for area.

Watering is critical for lightly several times a day cool and moist.

over the ground with a about four pounds of

~ of area. Drag a broom :~ to mix the seed into the ::;. the new seeding with 'j each 500 square feet of

:?~

new seedings. Sprinkle ~ . to keep the soil surface

When the grass is ~. . about two inches tall, remove halfthe straw. T~e L .. ,:l-, ~2 '? ')';'Ur.;.~.~ rest can be allowed to decompose naturally. ' .' .

Mowing can begin when the grass ~ two an:done-half to three inches tall. The mower blade must be sharp. Dull blades will pull the young plants dut of the ground rather than cut the leaves. .

Fertilize with a lawn fertilizer when the plants are tWo inches tall. Water in the fertilizer if the instructions on the bag say to do so.

Water so that one inch of water per week is applied to the new . seeding. CDJ)

Strawberries, strawberrie.s

Demonstrations and programs on composting, herb gardening, dividing perennials, turf renova­tion, water gardening, native plants, roses, selecting lawn grasses and flower arranging .. The public is also invited to view demonstration plantings of chrysanthemums, daylilies, turf grass cultivartrials, annual and perennial flowers.

Mark your calendar now and join your gardening friends at this fun and educational horticultural festival. CMJM)

This period of late summer into early fall isa critical time for strawberries, whether in the home garden or commercial planting. Growing condi­tions during August and September control the size of the cells in the buds that begin growth now and will fonn the fruit next spring. Thus, it's easy to understand how favorable growing conditions

. Kristin McHale won "Best of Show" with her green beans exhibit,

GARDEN GOSSIP

HOTLINE

L--______ --I now can lead to bigger strawberries next spring. Here are some strawberry suggestions that should lead to bigger berries .

• Take soil tests· from the strawberry bed. A modification of the soil acidity may be necessary to make nutrients already present available to the plants. It's getting late to fertilize strawberries now, since fertilizers applied late in the growing season, that will still be releasing nutrients in the spring, might cause the June crop to be soft.

• Water weekly if the weather is dry. A week without water can stress strawberry plants. A University of Missouri study for large scale plantings showed that it took only two September irrigations to increase strawberry yields in the spring by more than five thousand quarts per acre.

441-7179 • Eliminate competition from weeds. This is mainly hand work in

the h'ome planting. As gardeners have known for generations, weeds are easier to pull when the soil is wet. Take care not to damage the strawberry plants or roots. CDJ) 4-Hers work together to find the best potatoes to exhibit.

. Accessible from any phone

Helpful hints for proper fruit storage Proper storage q:mditions are

needed for fruits that are not consumed immed.iately after harvest. The key to good storage is in controlling the temperature and relative humidity of the storage area. For fruits such as apples, grapes and pears, store them in cool temperahlres at 32 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit and moist conditions at 90 to 95 percent relative humidity. Other fruits

Oriental greens Bok choy, pak choi and pa·.-:

choi are different spellings for the same vegetable. Character .. ized by its sturdy white or pale green stalks, it resembles Swiss chard and celery. This adds to' the name confusion since it is occasionally called celery cabbage (a name also applied to

. the Michihli type of Chinese cabbage.) Plant bok choy in early August for fall harvest.

The heading type of Chinese cabbage, also called napa, is an Oriental specialty with the crisp texture of lettuce .and the wlld . tang of.cabbage. Shorter days and cooler teinperaturei encour­age heading-. For fall, sow seeds ten- weeks before the first fall frost or set out. nursery-grown transplants in early August. (DJ)

should be canned or frozen after harvest .

Select containers for storage that have smooth inner surfaces.

. Baskets, melon crates or boxes are suitable. Line these containers with aluminum foil to help retain moisture.

Apples and pears will likely last through the fall and winter if stored properly. Apple varieties should be harvested firm and ripe

to insure the longest storage possible.

Harvest pears when they are ' full-sized but still green and hard. Pears ripen quickly at 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit.

Grapes will usually keep for one or two months . Grapes should be stored alone because they pick up odors of other fruits and vegetables . (MJM)

Late summer bloomers Are most of your early summer perennial flowers done blooming

for the year? Wouldn't it be nice to have a selection of perennials that bloom latein the summer? There are many attractive August.,.blooming perennials available and many bloom up until frost. Maybe next year you can add a selection of late-summer, blooming perennials to your flower garden. ' . I

Common name Color Height Black-Eyed Susan Yellow 2-3 ft. Sedums' Pink, Red, White 2-3 ft. Lavender Cotton Yellow 1 ft. Goldenrod Yellow 3 ft. Meadow Rue Lavender 3-5 ft. Obedient Plant Pink 2-4 ft. Asters Pink, Red 3-4 ft. Turtlehead Pink 3 ft. Helen's Flower Yellow 3 ft.

. Hostas Lavender 3 ft. Red Hot Poker . RedlYellow 3 ft. Gayfeater : Rose, Purple 1-2 ft.

. Of course this list is not complete. Check garden books and catalog's for more late-,bloomingperenruals. Plan on enjoying your perennial ' . gard~n ' until the cold weath~r sets ' in. (MJM)

Things · to do in August Black and purple raspberries, and blackberries, are propagated in

late August by tip layering. Tips of the current season's canyS are buried two to four inches in the soil, where they develop roots and form new plants before donnancy the same year. They are cut from the original plant before digging, leaving about six inches of the old cane attached to the rooted tip.

Irish potatoes will turn green where the skin is exposed to sunlight. Keep potatoes shaded while you are harvesting and store them out of light. Since potatoes keep better in the warm garden soil than the warm basement, pull soil or mulch over any shallow tubers to prevent this sun-greenling and postpone harvesting of storage potatoes until just before frost. Green areas on potatoes must be cut out before using.

Remove annual bedding plants that have finished blooming or . look terrible. Replace them with hardy annuals or chrysanthemums.

Prune dead branches from landscape trees 'and shrubs as well as fruit trees. It's easier to tell \vhich parts are dead now by the absence ' of leaves on those parts while the rest is still leafed out. CDJ)

Backyard. composting· Composting Demonstration Sites

Pioneers Park Nature Center Pioneers Park· 1 :30-3:00 p.m.

. September 10 and October 8

. . University Place Park 50th & .Colby • 1 :30-3:.00 p.m. . September'3 and October 1

. Antelope Park . 2944 Gaifield Street • 1:30-3:00 p.m. . ~S.eptember·11 and October 15 . .

August 1994 TheNEBLINE

Satellite wheat conference The 1994 University of

Nebraska Wheat Variety Trial results will be available earlier this year, according to the University of Nebraska Agricultural Research Division. In an effort to get variety trial information to wheat produc­ers prior to seed purchase and planting time, UNL specialists will share their results statewide over the University of Nebraska satellite television network. This infoffi1ation will be presented during a satellite wheat conference to be held at the Lancaster Extension Conference Center, Monday, August 8, 10 a.m. to

noon. The

purpose of this two­hour satellite program is to discuss

the results from each of the wheat plot trials across the state. Special­ists involved in the planting, care and harvest of the trials will discuss the results and interpret the differences.

Presenters will include Robert Klein, cropping specialist; Steve Baenziger, wheat breeder; Lenis

Nelson. variety testing coordina­tor; and Roger Hammons, Crop Improvement manager. Other university specialists dealing with insects and disease in wheat will also be available to answer questions.

The program will be broadcast live over satellite on Spacenet 3 channel 4. Anyone planning their own downlink should note that Spacenet 3 channel 4 is a split, low-power transponder and does not provide a quality signal on most home satellite receivers. (WS)

Insect management for August "'Corn ._~ .. Corn rootworm adults. Scout for corn rootworm adults throughout August. Current thresh-WLJ! ~~_ olds are about 18,000 beetles per acre (about one per plant) and 10% of the females are gravid, •• W." . treatment is suggested.

Recent developments in adult corn rootworm management include bait formulations which allow more specific control with lower levels of pesticide. These new bait preparations consist of insecticides at low rates and naturally occurring chemicals found in cucurbits (squash, cucumbers, and gourds). The chemicals found in cucurbits stimulate corn rootworm beetles to feed; also, they ingest the insecticide which kills them.

Producers must rely on field scouting to determine the need for and timing of insecticide application. Since male rootworm beetles emerge first and females must feed for 10 to 14 days between emergence and egg laying, producers should wait two to three weeks after the first beetles emerge before spraying. This will allow more of the females to emerge and thereby reduce the pool of emerging beetles that contribute to resurgence.

Sorghum Thrips. In Kansas in late June, there were widespread reports about thrip

infestations damaging sorghum fields. According to the Kansas newsletter (June 17), thrips may infest wheat until it matures and sorghum planted close to the time of small grain maturity may experience some degree of thrip infestation. According to the newsletter report, five-inch plants had leaf tissue with extreme scarring, some dead leaves and small plants were even dying. The majority of the leaf scarring

Adult t//lip appeared to be due to thrips, with numbers ranging from around two to as many as 20 per plant. The authors of the article stated that the plants showing this damage were part of an inbred breeding that may have had less vigor than in most commercial lines.

We know of at least one sorghum field in Lancaster County that seemed to be damaged by thrips. This damage again seemed to be confined to a specific genetic variety or line of sorghum. At the time of this writing, it is not clear if this is a widespread problem or an isolated incident. Regardless, a short section on thrips and thrip biology might be useful.

Thrips are extremely small (1125"), elongated insects that have two pairs of fringed wings. They are so small that they are easily overlooked and identification must be made using a microscope or a hand lens. Look for thrips in the whorl of the sorghum plant or behind the leaf sheath. Thrips have rasping-sucking mouthparts and those that are plant feeders destroy plant cells by their feeding. Some species act as vectors of plant disease. 'They are particularly abundant in the flower heads of daisies and dandelions. Most pest species are pests of horticultural crops.

Before you use an insecticide, he sure to verify allY insect pest illfestatioll that you might have. Bring samples to our office for identification.

Beans Bean leaf beetles and stinkbugs may be feeding on developing pods in late summer. Treatment may be

warranted if 10% of the pods are damaged by bean leaf beetles. Spider mites are sometimes a problem during hot, dry years. Look for tiny crawling mites on the

underside ofleaves. Treatment is warranted if mites are abundant and lower leaves are beginning to drop as a result of mite damage. (BPO)

Control hemp dogbane and other perennial weeds in the bud stage

sorghum has reached the soft dough stage. Treatments made prior to that time can result in crop injury due to 2,4-0 effecting pollination and yield potential. (OY)

Page 3

Abandoned well plugging demo planned

An abandoned well plugging demonstration is scheduled for Monday, August 22, near Hayman's Fertilizer in Holland, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Holland is approximately 12 miles south of Lincoln on Highway 77 and six miles west.

The demonstration will show participants firsthand how to successfully plug an abandoned well in accordance with Nebraska state statutes. Information on the procedure and cost-share opportunities through Natural Resource Districts will be available.

Abandoned wells are direct pipelines that can allow contaminants such as sediment, bacteria and chemicals to flow directly into our ground­water supply. Runoff, that might enter an

abandoned well, can contain pesticides, fertilizers, livestock waste and other contaminants. These contaminants can eventually show up in public or private wells used to provide drinking water. Abandoned wells have also proved to be a safety hazard to humans and animals. Chil­dren, pets or livestock can easily fall into large diameter dug wells and irrigation wells.

Proper plugging of abandoned wells costs some time and money. However, it is time and money well spent when you consider the benefits that include protecting the quality of our groundwater supply and possibly saving a child's life. Plugging an abandoned well will benefit you and your neighbor now, but it will also be appreciated by future generations. (OY)

Seed alfalfa in August The best time for fall seeding alfalfa in

eastern Nebraska is during the month of August, provided adequate soil moisture is available. At this time, soil moisture does look very favorable. Many producers prefer to seed in the fall rather than spring because weed problems are usually not as great.

A fall seeding avoids the spring weed problems of foxtail, pigweed and other summer annuals that can destroy a new crop. In Lancaster County, it is necessary to consider the weeds that will cause a problem for a fall seeding, if they have a history in that field. The cardinal rule has always been that you should not seed alfalfa into a weed problem! Pennycress and downy brome

have become very competitive over the years to fall seeded crops such as alfalfa and wheat. Therefore, if either of these two weeds are a problem in that field, don't seed there.

Farmers sometimes wait until middle or late September to plant alfalfa. This is often too late because the plants do not have a chance to become established before the first killing frost. September lOis the latest date alfalfa should be seeded in Lancaster County. If it cannot be completed by that time, it is best to wait another season.

Each year, many failures to establish alfalfa have been reported to this office. Our investigations have revealed that the most probable cause is that the seed bed is too loose. It doesn't matter if it's a spring or a fall seeclil1g, those who try to plant into loose soil are doomed to failure. Complete tillage is okay if the soil is firmed up by either moisture or packer-seeders. No-till planters have been very successful. In fact. no-till seedinQ: of alfalfa has become the trend among success-ful alfalfa producers. ~ ~

Before seeding alfalfa, regardless of spring or fall, do a complete soil test; apply lime if needed; and be sure to innoculate the seed. For more information, request NebGuide G83-652, Seeding and Renovat­ing A ((alja, from the Extension office. (WS)

Hemp dogbane, along with most other perennial weed .. , can best be controlled in late August or September when it is in the bud stage. At that time, root buds will have a swollen or enlarged appearance. Apply 2,4-D at a 1.0 Ib/active ingredient/acre rate so the herbicide can move into the root system of the plant along with herbicides.

the 2,4-0 treatment is made when the plant is not stressed by frost or a lack of moisture. Applications made during a drought or after a frost will not be as effective because plant translocation is slowed._ Other perennial weeds, unlike hemp dogbane, retain the ability to maintain active growth even after the first frost.

Recycle those pesticide containers Best controi can be achieved if

Do not spray in corn until after the silks have turned brown or

Integrated Resource Management Conference and Grazing Workshop

There will be an Integrated Resource Management (lRM) Confer­ence and Grazing Workshop, August 22-23 at the Ramada Inn in Kearney. The grazing workshop will be 8 a.l1l. to noon, Monday, Au­gust 22. The workshop is designed for cow-calf producers, SCS per­sonnel, grassland owners and producers with eRP acres. The resource people will be Or. Jim Gerrish from the University of Missouri and Dr. Pat Reece from the University of Nebraska. The IRM Conference will begin at 1 p.m., Monday, August 22 and finish by noon, Tuesday, August 23. The conference is designed for cow-calf producers, IRM local group participants and anyone interested in IRM. (OS)

Pesti­cide container recycling IS

continu­ing during August

on Fridays at locations in Lancaster County. Before you bring your 1 and 2 112 gallon, white and yellow, plastic pesticide containers to the sites, examine them carefully to make sure there are no pesticide residues on the inside or outside of the container. Some containers brought to our recycling trailer have dried pesticide residues around the cap threads, inside near the handle and on the outside of the container.

Improperly rinsed containers cannot be recycled and will remain the property of the person bringing them to the site.

Many thanks to those of you who have taken the time to make sure the containers are properly rinsed, dried, residue-free and

Collection Site Date

have the labels removed! We commend you for your environ­l11ental stevvardship!

For more information, contact University of Nebraska Coopera­tive Extension in Lancaster County, 441-7180. (OY)

Location Lancaster County Fair

Hayman's Fertilizer

Emerald Fa1111erS Co-op Inc.

Lancaster County Extension

Lancaster County Extension

August 4 (Thllrs)

August 12

August 19

August 26

September 2

State Fair Park

9525 Panama Road, Holland

Emerald

444 Chenycreek Road

444 ChelTycreek Road

• All locations open fi·om 8:00 a.I11.-3:00 p.m.

Please turn to page 1 0 for more Rural Sense news

Page 4 TheNEBLINE

Earth connection Everything on ealih is interconnected. When we consume natural

resources faster than they can be replenished, we seriously impact the health of ecosystems and the populations of plants and animals con-tained within. '

August 1994

Poison ivy

1994 EnviroFair Recycling can help us save resources, nabitats, and species. For

recycling to work, consumers need to buy products made from re­cycled materials-this closes the final link in the recycling loop.

To see products that are made from materials that would otherwise go to the landfill, attend the Lancaster County Fair EnviroFair! You will see a shoe made from tires, coffee filters, plastic bottles, diapers, and so on. Stationery produced from old money or from the waste clippings of denim articles, marble from soybeans, t-shirts, and other fabrics from plastic bottles, pencils made from old newspapers and cardboard, and other products will be displayed.

Each year people come in contact with poison ivy and it is usually because they do not recognize the plant. Not coming in contact with poison ivy is always the best prevention, but plants themselves can be controlled by either mechanical or chemical methods.

Poison ivy can be pulled out in early spring or late fall. Roots are easily removed when the soil is moist. If the soil is dry, the roots break in the ground and sprout new pl~nts. Vines growing up a tree should be severed at the base and the vine removed from the tree, if possible . Destroy or bury the plants, but do not burn. Smoke can carry the poisonous oils in a dispersed form. Wear protective clothing such as gloves and long­sleeved shirts when working around or removing poison ivy.

EnviroFair is Thursday, August 4, inAg Hall from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (ALH)

Thursday·· · August 4 • 7-9 p.·m.

Chemical herbicides, such as products containing 2,4-D, can be used to control poison ivy. Mix the herbicide according to label instructions and thoroughly wet the leaves, stem, shoots, and bark of the plants. For best results, spray soon after maximum leaf development in the spring. Spray early in the morning when there is little wind to prevent drift prob­lems. Retreatment may be neces­sary. (M1M)

Ag Hall • State Fair Pa'rk Exhibits • Hands-On Activities J

Free Admission • All Ages welc~me Paper, clothing-even sneakers can be made from recycled materi­als. See this display "From Trash to Terrific" at the EnviroFair, Ag Hall, Thursday, August 4, Lancaster County Fair.

Waterwise -';';';'. , I

I I I ·'I';'it+,-Conserve: Turn off I I / safeguard your Cut water waste: the water while you

, family from possible .,. Check for leaking

I I ' I

I

Water use by all of brush your teeth. I lead exposure. faucets, toilets. or

us is typically the .~ Put a box In the n pipes around the

You'll each save basement or garage. house.

highest during our hot ~ about 100 gallons a out of reach of ~~ -~ month once this ---- ~

children and pets, to .''i''+P-summer months. The ~ habit becomes ' collect household ,,' "/'1'" ,. ," : ~ '. '.

National Drinking Water Alliance, --- second nature. products that can Save water when you contaminate water. I I . \ You could be losing

a group of nonprofit educational turn on the tap for

~ If you 've got lead In Another gOOd day to 10 gallons per day to

organizations, encourages all of us drinking: Fill a Some cleaners, your plumbing conserve: Take a leaking faucets, pitCher With tap solvents. paints, and system. let the water shorter shower. toilets or pipes.

to practice water conservation. For \'later and put it in auto fluids contain run until It·s COld your refrigerator. toxic substances. when you turn on Or, Insta\l a low·flow

R a list of water /-- Dispose of them at the tap before shower head. Water

conserving tips, You'lI have a a special collection drinking or cooking savings can really refreshing beverage Make it a habit to center. with It. Save the add up when you

refer to NebGuide at your fingertips know when Mother flushed water for .

control the flow·

1061 "Conserving and you 'lI salle water Nature plans to

ffl your plants. you could save about

by not running the water the garden so 45D gallons a month!

Hi ller in the tap each time you or E,·m.,,,- you won 't have to. .,m'ii+p- 0

Landscape. " family members are thirsty. ~

(BPO)

Time for a septiC system tune-up? Pesticides in groundwater The most common wastewater

treatment system used in rural areas is the septic tank soil absorption system. The septic tank removes settleable and floatable solids from wastewater, the soil absorption field filters, and treats the clarified septic tank effluent. Removing solids from wastewater in the septic tank protects the soil absorption system from clogging and premature failure . In addition to removing solids, the septic tank also permits digestion of a portion of the solids and stores the undigested portion.

The septic tank removes solids by holding wastewater long · enough to allow solids to settle and scum to rise to the top. To accomplish this, wastewater should be held in the tank at least 24 hours. Up to 50 percent of solids retained in the tank decom­pose . The remaining solids accumulate in the tank as sludge. Biological and chemical additives are not needed to 'aid or accelerate decomposition and may actually slow the process or contaminate the groundwater.

As the septic system is used, sludge continues to accumulate in the bottom of the septic tank. Properly selected tanks have enough space for sludge to accumulate for up to about three years without interfering with solids removal. When the sludge IC\'cl increases beyond this point, sClxagc has less time to settle

,h~brc·, I ,~fy,l~gr-t~~ . ~~n1<: ~QP, sRl1!e

solids escape into the absorption area. When sludge accumulates too long, little settling occurs and sewage escapes directly to the soil absorption system. The soil absorption area gradually is plugged and fails; sewage backs up in the house or effluent surfaces in the absorption area. To prevent short circuiting of solids and premature failure of the soil absorption system, the tank must be pumped periodically. Material pumped from the septic tank is known as "septage" and must be disposed of properly.

Pumping Frequency The frequency of pumping

depends on the' following factors : • capacity of septic tank • flow of wastewater (related to

size of household and water-use habits)

• volume of solids in wastewa­ter (more solids if garbage disposal is used)

Table 1 (page 1 0) gives the estimated pumping frequencies according to septic tank capacity and household size. The frequen­cies were calculated to provide a minimum of 24 hours of wastewa­ter retention assuming 50 percent

. digestion of the retained solids, 50 gallons of sewage per person per day and no garbage disposal. If wastewater flow is more than 50 gallons per person per day, increase the pumping frequency accordingly. A garbage disposal can easily increase solids accumu­lation by 50 to 100 percent, requiring up to double the rate of tank pumping needed for a system without a disposal. For this reason, the homeowner should carefully

Please tum to Septic: page 10

Kids, bugs and buHerflies! Do you know a young person who loves watching a honey bee buzz

from flower to flower stuffing her pollen baskets or wondering how a tiny ant can possibly carry a crumb several times its' size? Or, the won­derment of watching a butterfly emerging from a chrysalis?

Kids in grades 5-12 can now be youth members in the Entomologi­cal Society of America. Upon joining, youth members will receive a welcome gjft and a youth member information packet. The monthly ESA Newsletter which includes BEESWAX, a newletter especially for youth members, and the colorful quarterly magazine American Ento­mologist. will be sent to youth members. Membership dues are $10 per year. Barb Ogg has applications for youth membership and a copy of BEESWAX to preview. An application for youth membership must be signed by a parent or other sponsoring adult; Barb will be happy to sponsor any interested young person. Please call 441-7180.

I i _ ! tI • I '( ; ' . ~ -. ; ~ . J • . , ., . " '1 ~ " .' .,',

Groundwater and surface water are interrelated. In fact, they are parts of the same natural "plumbing" system called the hydrologic cycle .

Water that falls on the earth 's surface as rain or snow runs off into lakes and streams, evaporates, or soaks into the soil. Some of the water that enters the soil is taken up by plant roots and some gradu­ally seeps downward, filling spaces and cracks in the underlying layers of soil, gravel, and rock. The water in these deep, saturated layers is the groundwater.

The water seeping down through the soil can carry with it water soluble nutrients, minerals, and other substances in or on the soil. This "leaching" process is similar to what happens when you make drip coffee. Water drips through the ground cofTee leaching caffeine and flavoring compounds into the coffee pot. But unlike making coffee, the leaching of pesticides through the soil is unintentional and the amounts are so small that they can only be detected by sophisti­cated laboratory analysis of the water.

Whether pesticides that leach into the groundwater pose a hazard to humans or animals depends on the toxicity and concentration of the compounds and how they "degrade" or break down as they move through the soil. In time, pesticides break down into simpler chemi­cal compounds. The breakdown can be caused by reaction with minerals and other natural chemicals in the sod or water, by physical factors such as sunlight or heat, or by bacteria and other microorgan­isms. The compounds eventually resulting from the breakdown process are usually nontoxic, although some compounds formed in intermediate steps in the process can themselves be toxic.

Pesticides continue to break down in groundwater, but for lack of light, heat, and oxygen in the water-saturated layers below the surface, chemical breakdown is gener~lly much slower than in the surface layers of the soil. .

Groundwater does not remain stationary, but moves vertically and horizontally in response to gravity and hydraulic pressure. Ground­water "flow" rate is frequently only several feet per year, although in permeable sand and gravel aquifers, groundwater can move one or two feet per day. Even at this "fast" rate, groundwater and substances dissolved in it might take 15 years to move only one mile. Because the movement of groundwater is slow and difficult to predict, substances that enter the groundwater in one location can unexpect­edly turn up years later in different locations.

Plellse tum to Grolilldwater: page 10

August 1994 TheNEBLINE

July community profile: Hallam Our community profile for

July is the Village of Hallam, located in Buda Township in southwest Lancaster County.

Location -20 lTules southwest of Lincoln -24 miles north of Beatrice -15 miles southeast of Crete

Population 1992-309

Transportation -State Highway Spur 55H -Lincoln Municipal Airport

Village Utilities Electricity: Nebraska Public

Power Water: Hallam Water Spr\llrp-~

two wells Sanitation: Lagoon system TV: Douglas Cablevision~-

10 channels

Municipal Services -Village board of trustees -Village zoning ordinance in effect

-County sheriff's department -Volunteer fire department -Private garbag~ services -Percent of streets paved: 80%

Recreation Facilities -Public park and ball park

Retail Business -Main Street Bar -Hitchin Post II Restaurant -Brothers Automotive

Hallam O-~~'lJ"'--~

Retail Business (cont) -Hallam Body Shop -Hallam Grain • Hallam Hair -Saline State Bank -Silk & Nails -Vic's Upholstery

~~---8----1

N

w-i-' E

s

Major Employer -NPPD-Sheldon Station

Organization Contacts _ Village of Hallam i\i

-TCIF Club

(DM) -Legion Club ~

'---------------------- ~--~- - ... -.-. ~- .... -.--- ... ----.-------- ~.-----------

What's your leadership style? a Have you sat in a

, me~ting becoming more and more hostile because you felt the '

leader did all the group's thinking? Or have you become so frustrated because the leader was so "laid back" no decisions were made'! These are two very different leadership styles, Each individual feels comfortable with different styles. Basically, there are three different leadership styles. Knowing your own style helps you understand why certain things may be happening when you are in the leadership role.

Autocratic leaders reserve the "right" to do the group's thinking. They make the plans and decisions for the group, Generally, this

leader gives instructions with expectations that the group will follow through. The advantage to this style is that it saves time, especially on routine or straight­forward issues. The disadvantage of this style is that group members have no ownership, so they can be highly critical of the leader's decision.

The democratic leader solicits thinking and open discussion on issues by all members. This leader makes the decision only after receiving appropriate input from all the members. The advantages to this style are that the group gains ownership and commitment for decisions and activities, The disadvantages are that it takes time and can divide the group.

The laissez··faire leader is "laid back" and allows group members to "do their thing" and make decisions. The advantage is that it promotes creativity, The disadvan­tages are that the leader has no control, morale is usually low and it is highly frllstrating to organized members.

Think about your leadership style. Which of these best de­scribes you? Think of some of the problems you may be having in getting cooperation from your group's members. Perhaps a change in leadership style would help you achieve your goals_

Source: Natalie M. Snydel; Senior Project Associate, Agricul­tural Economics and Rural Sociology, Penn State (SE)

Preparation key to good group discussion Unstmchlfed conversation

between friends, coworkers, business associates, and others is commonplace. These conversa­tions are informal. They occur over lunch, during coffee breaks, or after a meeting, and often result in good ideas, plans, and actions, However, formal group discussion requires a different approach.

Good group discllssions don't just happen. They come about through preparation, participation, and pulling ideas together. The group members and leader share responsibility for the outcome of the discussion. A good discussion leader should get things stalied, record and review the group's accomplishments, and make sure

that the discussion ends on time. Members should come to the meeting prepared to discuss the topic and ask relevant questions. Good discussions ensure future success for a group.

Source: Natalie'M. SnydeJ; Senior Project Associate Agricul­tural Economics and Rural Sociology, Penn State (SE)

A safety message from Fireman Bill August is a good month for

checking your address numerals, There are still a lot of homes and businesses both in to.wn and in rural areas who do not have their address numerals posted where they are readily seen. As emer­gency responders it hinders our ability to find your location in an emergency, causing a needless delay in helping you! I cannot stress enough, the need for everyone to post their address

numerals prominently on their property! Here are some tips from your friends at Southeast Fire:

Place reflective numerals at least three inches tall on both sides of your curbside or roadside mailbox.

Place your numerals promi­nently on your home and business as well. Use contrasting numbers (for example: black numerals on a white house), and avoid using script or other hard-to-read

characters. Be sure your numbers are

visible at all times from the street. This may require trimming trees or bushes, or lighting up the numbers at night.

Please feel free to contact us at 466-2911 (Lincoln) if we can help you with fire safety or fire prevention.

-Bill Montz, Jr., Fire Preven­tion/Public Relations, Southeast Fire DepattrheIit: (DM)"

PageS

Hallam, in southwest Lancaster County is one of the state's town­ships with the distinction of being selected as anAH-Nebraska Com­munity (ANC).

HaHam main street features many retail businesses and is an active agricultural community, as wen as being home to Nebraska Public Power District's Sheldon Station.

Rural Nebraska computer use The ramifications of the

personal computer as a working tool are just beginning to be explored and Nebraskans are in on the action.

The more people use their computers, the more apt they are to be independent or tap into the myriad of information already on the information highway. A 1991-92 survey showed just how many mral Nebraskans are on the cutting edge with their computers:

- 25% of non-retired farm households and 22% of house­holds in other rural areas own a computer.

- 46% of farm households and 51 % in other mral areas have had some computer training or usage.

- 31 % of farm and 38% other rural households use a computer regularly.

- 46% offam1 and 35%of other mral households use a computer for data entry,

The survey also shows that the people most likely to take advan­tage of the telecommunications technology are the ones with the most education.

Nationwide in 1993. 40 million people worked at home. Nearly 20% of them were full­time telecommuters that "have computer, can work anywhere." This means that locale can now be the vantage point rather than an inhibition. You can literally pick your place to live and work.

However, not everyone is suited to work at home--or even

. ill' small communities-. -Working-at

home requires a respect for the business from family members and a conU11itment to avoid constant interruptions. The teleconunuter or other home worker also may miss the camara­derie of coworkers.

There's another angle to telecommuting. The attraction of less populated areas may appeal to many, but living in a rural conUl1U­nity may not be quite what it was envisioned.

John Allen, rural sociologist, found that people in smaller towns are used to knowing almost everyone and knowing what they do. A new telecommuter in a small town may be met with suspicion, because the individual is less visible. Because long-time residents don't regularly see telecommuters and how they work, they tend to "create" their own history about them.

Individuals preparing to live and work in a new rural area wbuld do well to make themsel ves visible. Go to the coffee shop, for example-and take some of your work with you, Get involved with conunurlity affairs and become more visible. You should want to become accepted. Give the townspeople a reason to know you, not a reason to just wonder.

Realize, however, that the acceptance and change in people's attitudes isn't as fast as the work you do on the computer. Give the process some time.

Source: John Allen, Ph.D., rurdl sbCiologist, NUIIANR (DM)

Page 6

Roberta's remarks Convention is over and it's time to get

back to business for local FCE clubs. Lancaster County had good representatlOll with nearly twenty memhers attending. Eight me, !bers of the Helpful Homemakers made the 1 r<..::k to South Sioux City. We had four clubs recogmzed in the +2 Membership Contest: Classie Lassies; Get-To-Gether;

Glamour Girls; and New Directions. Two very minor constitutional changes were voted on and approved. Tootie Johansen of Glamour Girls was elected to the office of State Treasurer! The main message throughout the convention to all FCE members was to give us a chance to show how great this organization will continue to be. Convention reports were given at our June council meeting. All five delegates wish to say a BIG THANK YOU for sending us to the convention. We all had a great time! Next year, State Convention will be held in Broken Bow.

Reorganizational packets will be t:eady by Aqgus.t 1.5. Someone in your club should pick up this packet as soon as possible. It should be in the hands of yow- club president imniediately so she can pass on forms that must be turned in the first part of October. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. . '

As promised in the July NEBLlNE, some additional thoughts from State President Dee Rudolph: "No one likes spending more money, but events change in everyone's life. No one would honestly like it to stay the same. We have not been realistic about dues for 20 years. Far too many individuals thought we had a great many members and it would always be that way. The factors of members aging, the economic status of families caused women to join the work force, and the fact that we did not attract new younger members has caused a decrease in membership for many years. The dues re­mained the same and rather than upset members, we gave up the opportunity to develop a publication for every member, a marketing plan and to reach out to new individuals and families in our commu­nities.

Membership in Nebraska has declined by 1,000 members per year for the last ten years. In 1994. we have 11,200 members. Keeping the dues low was not the answer.

StalL' offic'l'rs have hC,lld the complaint of "the same old lesson" for yens. Members have always been asked for suggestions, and a seric.'s of procedures to select them has been in place. There is always something new even in an old basic idea. It is the members attitude that makes the difference."

Our next council meeting will be in September. Until then, enjoy your summer.

fce

-Roberta Newburn, chair

Time to reorganize

Family and Community Education (FCE) Club reorganization packets will be ready for club presidents to pick up August 15 at the Extension office. It is time to look forward and plan an exciting and educational year for FCE. If you have questions, call Lorene or Pam at 441-7180. (LB)

You and your credit card Leader training for FCE clubs on You and Your Credit Card is

scheduled for Tuesday, September 27, 1 or 7 p.m. Mark your calendar and watch for more details in the September NEBLINE. (LB)

Help teens look to the future Graduation is an exciting time

for many seniors, their families, and friends. But it can be a difficult time for younger adoles­cents who see others making the transition to life after high school. Teens may begin to think about their own futures, which may be exciting, but also a hit scary.

A study of more than 40.000 Wisconsin leens revealed that getting a good job after high school was one of the most commonly identified worries of teens. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, showed that 31 percent of 7th and 8th graders worried a lot about getting a good. job after high school. The figure rose to nearly 50 percent for 11 th and 12th graders.

Adults can playa key role in helping teens look to and plan for

future employment. Offering support, encouragement and help, when they request it, can make worries about the. future less

troublesome.

cents to think about the future in a way that makes them feel sup­ported and at ease. Encourage teens without "pushing" them toward particular vocations of your choice.

Dust mites increase with summer humidity

House dust mites are a part of everyday life and don't bother most people. Summer's heat and humidity increases the number of house dust mites, but there are ways to keep their population down.

House dUST miTe

Mite populations increase and decrease with the seasons due to the rising and falling of both temperature and humidity. Immature mites may

be dormant during long periods of low humidity, maturing when conditions are more favorable.

Lowering the relative humidity to less than 50 percent will help reduce numbers. A double- filtered ventilator or air conditioner may help, especially during pollen season. Also, vent the clothes dryer to the outdoors.

The pinhead-sized house dust mites live in carpets, bedding and upholstered furniture. They especially like textured upholstered furniture and long or loose pile carpeL 11(l\\'c\er, small numbers of them can be found in tight-pile carpet, vinyl furniture, wood floors or encased mattresses.

These mites are everywhere - living on skin scales, or dander, regularly shed from humans and animals. The mites don't bother most people. For about five percent of the population, however, their fecal matter and castoff skin or "dust" can cause sneezing, runny nose or aggravate allergies. Keeping the dust under control may help some people control their allergies.

Regular, thorough vacuuming - twice weekly, for example - of carpets, draperies and furniture may help keep populations low. Vacuum wall-to-wall carpets more often - especially if the premises are damp.

Choose window treatments such as washable curtains and roller shades to also help keep dust mites under control. Turn and vacuum mattresses every few months and/or use a plastic covering. Wash other bedding frequently. .

For people with allergies to house mite dust, specialty vacuum cleaners with High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEAP) type filters may help. Micro filter bags help keep in the very small particles that may otherwise become suspended. These filters capture minute particles better than traditional disposable vacuum cleaner bags. A central vacuum system also may alleviate allergy suffering because the pipes carry and store the dirt away from the living quarters.

People with extreme cases of dust mite allergies should seek medial attention. Chemicals may be suggested, as might the removal of textiles from the sleeping area. (LB)

One way to show support is to help teens explore various career possibilities. Remember that they are exploring, so don't be alanned if they want to know more about careers in rock music or aerospace engmeenng.

Helping teens explore careers may involve introdllcing them to adults who are involved in specific careers. You can heir young people find ~lddrc:,~,'s so 1hey can write to pro feSSJ owd II i~a niza tions or ullions. Let tl~CIlS know about schools which train workers for careers that interest them. If your teen requests it, volunteer to arrange for a visit.

Give adolescents an opportu­nity to talk openly about what careers they are considering. As they learn more about a career, let them share how well they feel it would fit with their skills, interests and values. The key is to help young people develop a sound process of considering career possibilities so they can make decisions that work for them.

Supportive adults can help prevent teens from being over­whelmed by worries about future employment. .

Source: Deb Hall, Ph.D., 4-H Youth Specialist, NUIIANR (LJ)

Cleaning a Microwave Oven We often think a microwave

oven does not require special cleaning. but if the oven is not cleaned regularly, an unpleasant odor can develop. This odor is caused by food particles becom­ing spoiled. Also, food residue can accumulate around the frame or on the door and inter­fere with the seal.

Avoid these problems by wiping the oven after every use with a sponge dipped in a liquid dishwashing detergent/warm water solution. Rinse with a clean sponge.

To soften cooked-on soil, boil a cup of water in a 2-cup measure or bowl in the oven for 3 to 4 minutes. Remove unpleas­ant odors by placing a solution of 112 cup lemon juice and 1 cup water in a large measuring cup in the oven to boil for 2 to 3 min­utes. (LB)

For a calorie-conscious snacker What do youth think about the future? Almost no calories

per serving celery sticks lettuce cucumbers green peppers mushrooms cauliflower broccoli

35-40 calories 1 medium peach I medium nectarine 112 grapefruit 1/2 cup skim milk 114 cup plain yogurt 3 saltine crackers 1/2 small banana

25-30 calories 50-60 calories 1 small tangerine 1 small apple 1/2 cup watermelon 1 small orange 114 cantaloupe 15 grapes 1 small tomato 12 cherries 1 medi urn carrot I cup strawberries 1 cup popcorn 1/4 cup cottage cheese

__ ~~retzel_~t~~ ... , _____ ~small s~~p~ __ ._ .. __ .... _. ___ ~:::_~~A Consumer (AH>j

2,092 of America's brightest high school students recently responded to a survey conducted by "Who's Who Among American High School Students." The following percentages reflect these student's biggest concerns or fears:

• 41 % reported incidents of violence in their schools. • 45% reported they knew someone who had brought a gun to

school. • 45% reported considerable press~re to have sex. • 26% described themselves as being sexually active. • 78% were more concerned about getting AIDS than they were

a year ago. • 54% expect to have more difficulty starting a career than did

their parents. • 58% expect more difficulty buying a house. • 60% expect more difficulty affording an education. • 33% of the students have cWlsidered suicide.

Source: Kids Are Our Business: A 4-H Youth Trends and Research Newsletter. Georgia Extension Service (Ll)

Food safety for temporary food service establishments C Food stands, bake

sales, ba~aars, church! commumty suppers and other food sales

provide good opportunities for organizations to raise money, but the food you prepare and offer for sale mLlst be safe for the con­SllmlT. \Vhcn cllstomers buy food, they have the nght to expect that it will be safe and wholesome. If customers are unhappy \vith the products they purchase from you, they will not be back. Word-of­mouth advertisement from a bad experience may hurt future business. Sponsoring organiza­tions are responsible for the safety of the food products they offer for sale. If complaints are made or if a reported illness results from food sold at an event, inspection and/or investigation may result.

Potentially hazardous foods are those that have been impli­cated in numerous foodbome illness outbreaks. These foods include: meat and poultry; pastries made with cream or custard fillings; salads and sandwiches made with meat, poultry, eggs or fish; and home canned low acid foods such as vegetables and meats.

Reports of foodborne illness have made the headlines in recent years, but many cases of foodborne illness go umeport'ed because the symptoms are similar to the flu. Most foodbome illness outbreaks have involved food prepared away from home, but food prepared under home conditions also may cause these flu-like symptoms.

Foods contaminated with microorganisms are the cause of food borne illness. Contaminated food usually does not taste bad, smell bad or look bad.

What food handling practices contribute to food borne illness? If we look at the cause of reported foodborne illness outbreaks, we have some clues where microbial contamination occurs.

The ten most important factors \vhich contributed to recently reported foodborne illnesses i11 the: United States are listed below. Ways to prevent a foodborne outbreak from food served at your event is included in the discussion.

1. Improper cooling a. Leaving cooked foods at

room temperature b. Storing foods in large

containers in refrigerators

F oodbome microorganisms grow best at temperatures between 40°F and 140°F. Food left at room temperature for more than two hours provides the ideal conditions. for microorganisms to multiply rapidly.

- Keep foods that are served cold at 40°F.

- Keep foods that are served hot at or above 140°F.

- Keep a thermometer handy to check the temperatures often.

- Do not leave food out for more than two hours.

- Maintain refrigerator at 40°F and freezer at O°F.

Hot food stored in large containers in refrigerators or freezers cannot cool down quickly. Microorganisms again have the conditions which favor rapid growth.

- Store foods in small shallow containers and refrigerate them immediately.

- Use ice to quickly chill foods and to keep them cold.

- Do not cool hot foods at

I--------~-----------I

cgeCAlt77 f Atl".5 ~ Serve this when strawberries are in season. It's great on pancakes or as a topping on angel food cake.

Fruit Sauce 1 1/2 cups fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries or

one 12 oz. package frozen raspberries or strawberries 1 packet Equal sweetener or 4 teaspoons sugar 1 tablespoon lemon juice Fresh fruit: Put 1/2 cup of fruit in a blender with

sweetener and lemon juice. Blend until smooth. Add remaining fruit and stir into mixture.

Frozen fruit: Thaw fruit. Place half of the fruit in blender with sweetener and lemon juice. Blend until smooth. Drain remaining fruit and stir into mixture.

Yield: 1 1/4 cups (5 servings of 1/4 cup). Calories per serving 25 with sugar; 15 with Equal.

Reproduced with permission from: Brenda Ponichtera. R.D .• author, "Quick & Healthy," ScaleDown, 1519 Hermits Way, The Dalles, Oregon 97058. Cost is $16.95 + $2 postage. (AH) L ____________________ ~

Family Community Leadership

Become involved in making decisions that affect you and your cOlnmunity

For more information, contact your local Cooperative Extension Office

room temperature before refrigera­tion. Refrigerate hot foods immediately.

- Ice used to keep food cold should not be used for human consllmpti on.

2, Lapse of 12 or more hours ht\\een preparation and eating

i\iicroorganisms need time to

grmv and multiply. Dy reducing the amount of time between preparation and eating of food, we reduce the chances of any micro­organisms present from growing to large numbers.

-~ Shorten the length of time between preparation and the sale of the food items.

3. Colonized or infected persons handling foods

Staphylococcus bacteria is found naturally on our bodies. If we have sores or pimples, these have higher numbers of this bacteria. People who are ill also have higher numbers of microor­ganisms that cause illness. Food handlers should practice a high degree of personal hygiene and cleanliness.

- Wash hands often when handling raw foods such as poultry and meats; after coughing or blowing your nose; after handling garbage; and after using the bathroom facilities.

- If cuts do exist on hands, use plastic gloves.

- Use utensils as much as possible; tongs work well for handling raw vegetables and other "finger" foods.

-~ ProteCt foods from dust, sneezing, and handling by customers. Use appropriate packaging and covers on food. If possible, provide dust/sneeze Please turn to Food Safe: page 11

Meal time with children Croperati\~ Extension's, Expanded Food and Nutrition Education

Prog,~; n-:. IEf'"fEP) advisors encourage families to make meal time a spcci~;~ U!"~ fur the family by reviewing these principles as they visit i~llnili(::;.

Where your t~Hnily eats, what time you eat. and the mood of the family at the meal are important in the development of your children's eating habits_

Try to eat in the same place all the time. Eating at the table is a good idea for meals and snacks. Try to avoid eating on the run or in front of the television.

Plan to have meals and snacks at regular times. Let everyone know ahead of time if these times change.

Give children smaller forks, spoons, plates, and cups. Let your child set the table with his/her own dishes.

Make meal time pleasant. Meal time is a good time to talk about what everyone did during the day. Try not to get angry over spills. Let children learn to help pick up or clean up when these things happen.

Let your children choose what they want to put on their plates. Work on having them take only as much food as they can eat. Don't force cleaning of plates because it encourages overeating.

When you are trying to serve your children new and different foods, your enthusiasm is important. Your children will watch you and see how you like these foods.

If you eat vegetable and fruit snacks it will be easy to get your children to do the same.

Another way to encourage your children to try new foods is to let your children help you plan and prepare new meals. Give each child a responsibility for a part of the meal. Make sure each meal has at least one food your children like.

Be enthusiastic! Children like mild flavors so it is not necessary to add salt and

sugar to their foods. Your children may not like certain flavors. Don't give up. If they

won't eat a food the first time it is offered, wait a week and offer the food in a different form. For example, if your child doesn't like broc­coli, try it the next time finely chopped and cooked in a casserole.

Children like lukewarm foods. If you serve food too hot you may need to wait for the food to cool before your child will eat it.

Getting children to try lots of different foods is easier ifthe food is pretty. Children like their food to look good. Sometimes adding fruit or vegetable garnishes to their plates makes food more attractive. These garnishes can also bl: eatcn,

Source: EFNEP Imvu State University lind Kansas State Univer-sity (MB) ~

Healthy snack ideas Snacking seems more common in the summer, especially if you have children home from school. The

best low-calorie snacks are low in fat and sugar and provide nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein. Snacks should be a planned part of the total day's intake and not left to chance. Here are some healthy snack ideas:

Low-Calorie Cooleps & Shakes • Enjoy soda water on-the-rocks with a twist of lime or lemon. • Combine 112 cup each of soda water and your favorite fruit juice on-the-rocks.

Vegetables • Combine in a blender and whirl until smooth: 1 cup cottage cheese, 2 to 4 tablespoons milk, and dill

weed or chives to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon). Enjoy this dip with an assortment of raw vegetables. • Marinate leftover cooked vegetables with low-calorie Italian dressing.

Fruit • Combine 1 carton plain yogurt, 3 tablespoons low-calorie strawberry jam, 114 teaspoon cinnamon, and

1 teaspoon grated lemon rind. Chill. Serve this dip with fruit chunks. • Make frozen banana treats by wrapping peeled bananas in foil or plastic and freezing until firm.

Protein • Combine and mix well: 113 cup water-packed tuna (drained), 2 tablespoons plain yogurt, chopped

onion and celery, diced cucumber, a dash of pepper and dry mustard, and a dash of lemon juice or vinegar. Enjoy this on Melba toast, saltines, or other crackers.

• Slice cucumber into quarter-inch slices. Store in refrigerator covered with water until ready to use. For a protein-rich snack, spread with any of these toppings: mashed cottage cheese with pineapple chunks or other fruit; mashed hard-cooked egg with prepared mustard; drained tuna, with a slice of mozzarella cheese.

Grains • Mini-pizzas: Place tomato slice or sauce on bagel chips, Scandinavian crisp breads, English muffin

half, pita bread round, or Melba toast. Sprinkle with Italian seasonings. Top with a thin slice of part-skim mozzarella cheese or shake on grated Pam1esan cheese. Place in a warm oven or under broiler briefly to melt cheese.

• Pocket salad: Place lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and diet dressing in a pita pocket bread.

Sweet Treats • Instant ice cream: Combine 2 cups frozen fruit, 1 cup skim or low-fat milk, and 2 to 4 tablespoons sugar

(optional) in a blender and whirl until smooth. Serve immediately as soft ice cream or pour into plastic cups and freeze for 1 hour.

• Cornstarch pudding: G-ombine 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 1/3 cup sugar in saucepan. Add.2 cups skim milk and slowly bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Boil 2 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon of an extract such as vanilla, lemon or almond. Top with fruit, raisins, peanuts, or a chocolate curl. Makes four, half-cup servings.

Source: FDA Consumer (AH)

1994 Lancaster

County Fair

August 3-6 State Fair Park

Wednesday, August 3 Tab I e S e tt i n 9 Con t est ..................... 9 a.m. Exhibits open to public .................. 11 a.m. CarnivaL .... ~. ~ ........ : ............. ~ .. 12-1 O·p~m-~

'4-H Household Pets Show ............. 11 a.m. Pork Barbecue ............................... 5 p.m. ·Carnival. ................................ 12-10 p.m. Ice Cream Social. .............. 6:00-8:30 p.m.

4-H Poultry Show .......................... 4 p.m. Rabbit Specialty Classes ................. 6 p.m.

4 -H Dog S how .......................... " . . . 4 p. m . Far m Fa mil yAw a rd ........................ 7 p. m . 4-H Style Review .......................... 7 p.m. Hay Hauling Contest ...................... 7 p.m. 4-H Sheep Show ........................... 5 p.m. Rodeo ..................................... 7:30 p.m. LaCrosse & River Rock Rodeo Dance-Family Show .................... 7:30-9:30 p.m. High Caliber ................. 9 p.m.-12:30 a.m.

Thursday, August 4 Saturday, August 6 (Kids Day) 4-H Rabbit Show ........................... 8 a.m. Volkswalk ..................................... 7 a.m. 4-H/FFA Swine Show ......... ' ............ 9 a. m. 4-H Demonstrations .................. 8: 30 a. m. Health Awareness Day ......... 9 a. m .-f.? p.m. 4-H Short Hair Cat Show ........... 8:30a.m. EnviroFair ........................... 9a.m.-8 p.m. Bicycle Safety Rodeo ..................... 9 a.m. CarnivaL ................................ 12-10 p.m. 4-H Dairy Cattle Show ................... 9 a.m.

4 -H Dog A gil i ty S how . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 2 'p. m " Big W h eel R ace. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. 1 1 a . m .

·Kiddy Tractor Pull. ......................... 4 p.m. Carnival. ....................... ~ ........ 12-10 p.m.

4-H Horse Game Show .................. 4' p.m. 4-H Long Hair Cat Show ............ 1 :30 p.m.

Watermelon Feed ..................... 6:30 p.m. 4-H Bucket Calves .. ' ..................... 1-4 p.m. Sweetwater Family

Friday, August 5 Entertainment ............................... 3 p.m. 4-H Goat Show ............................. 8 a.m. Mini-Tractor Pull. ........................... 4 p.m.

4-H Beef Show .............................. 8 a.m. Rodeo ..................................... 7:30 p.m.

Lancaster County Fair TheNEBLINE

HEALTH AWARENESS DAY

AUGUST 4 (Held during the Lancaster County Fair)

9 A.M. - 5 P.M.

STATEF AIR P ARK-AG HALL Spollsored by the Lancaster County Association for Family and Community Education

EXHIBITORS & AGENCIES 'POISON PREVENTION -STROKE--IT CAN BE PREVENTED -PYRAMID POWER -RESPIRATORY CARE -SAFETY FOR THE OVER-50 DRIVER -ALCOHOL & DRUG ABUSE

PREVENTION EDUCATION 'AG INJURY PREVENTION -PUBLIC HEALTH NURSING -BICYCLE/TRAFFIC SAFETY -CANCER PREVENTION & EARLY

DETECTION -LINCOLN INFORMATION FOR THE

ELDERLY

-OPERATION LIFESAVER

'CELIAC SPRUE -D.A.R.E. AND SAFETY AWARENESS -55 PLUS PROGRAM 'ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION -VISUALLY IMPAIRED PEER SUPPORT -COMMUNITY BLOOD BANK -AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION -BICYCLE SAFETY JAMBOREE -LEARNING IS CHILD'S PLAY -ON YOUR OWN IN RURAL AMERICA -FARMER'S LUNG TESTING-

U OF N MEDICAL CENTER 'AND MANY MORE ... '

I Ag Hall • Friday • August 5 • 9 a.m. I

~-.

August 1994

4-H Household Pets Show

Wednesday August 3 • 11 a.m.

Demo Complex A & B

WATERMELON FEED

Thursday • August 4 • 6:30 p.m.

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,--------------.. , .--... ------, "' .... -----.~~' ... ----~-~-. r---------------------------,

Events Include: • Bull Riding & Bonus

Bull Challenge Ride

• Bareback Riding

• Comedy Show

• Calf Roping

• Saddle Bronc Scramble

• Kids 4-H Calf Scramble

• Steer Wrestling

• Kids Mutton Bust'n

• Team Roping

• Trick Riding Show

• Barrel Racing

$& Adults

August ~fb.I1. ,;tb 7:30 p.m. $4 Children under 12

1---___ . ----- ----.-'"--.-.--.. ---------.--... --.~.-----.-----~--~

While at the fair ...

Purchase your concessions at these food spots

4-H ROCK CAFE

SNACK SHACK

FEED BAG

August 1?~4 __ _ TheNEBLINE Lancaster County Fair

Lancaster County Fair

Carnival'

Wednesday ~hr~ Saturday

Pork Barbecue Begins at5 p.m. (Held at the Beef Pit)

Ice Cream Social . Begins at 6 p.m. (Held at the Beef Pit and the Demo Mall)

I Friday • August 51

LANCASTER COUNTY FAIR MAP STATE FAIR PARK LINCOLN, NE PARKING 1 Exhibitor parking (no trailers) 2 Staff parking 3 General parking 4 Campers & RV's 5 Horse & livestock trailers 6 Working horse trailers

EXHIBITION AREAS· ·Please check fair schedule for specific times of events

ABCD Demonstration Rooms E 4-H Youth Office F 4-H Rock Cafe G Rabbits, Poultry & Pigeons H Carnival I Open Class Office J Dairy Cattle K Beef L Swine M Sheep N Goats o Livestock Office P Snack Shack Q Home Ec/Engineering (2nd floor) R Feed Bag Cafe S Farmland Building T Grandstand U Open Class Exhibits V Restrooms W Coliseum X Horse Barns Y Agricultural Hall Z Dempster Building

1994 EnviroFair

August 4 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Ag Hall, State Fair Park

I--------~------- -------- ---------------- ------ --------------- ----------i I Pesticide Container Recycling - Collection

I

From Trash to Terrific 4-H Horticulture & Youth Gardening

Worms Eat Your Garbage Abandoned Well Plugging

Recycling/Precyciing . S.W.A.P. (Storm Water Awareness Program)-Clean Community'

Local Flora & Fauna - Pioneers Park Nature Center Invaders! - Lancaster County Noxious Weed Control

Paper Pizazz Living with Wildlife-USDA-APHIS Animal Damage Control

Biosolids- Lincoln Wastewater System Animal Control Display

_H 20 Show Nitrate Management

Project Wild & Aquatic Education- Nebraska Game & Parks & MUCH, MUCH, MORE

L ____________________ _ -- __________ .. __________________ . _______________ J

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Lancaster County Fair TheNEBLlNE August 1994

1994 Lancaster' County Fair Schedule Saturday, July 23

4-H Shooting Sports BB/Pellet Rifle Contest .................. 9 a.m.

(Lancaster Building)

Wednesday. July 27

Style Review Judging

4-H horse club leaders. briefing &

stall assignments (Coliseum Office). ....................... 7:30 p.m.

Thursday. July 28

Music Contest (Kimball Hall) ........... ............................ 7 p.m.

Saturday. Ju!¥...3..Q

Open Class Horse Show (East Arena) ............. .............. 8 a.m.

4-H Shooting Sports Pellet Pistol Contest

(Lancaster Extension Conference Center) . .. .. .. . ....... . ...... 8 a.m.

4-H Shooting Sports Smallbore Rifle Contest

(Lincoln Parks and Recreation Range) ........ .. .... .. .. .. . .. .... 9 a.m.

4-H Shooting Sports Trapshooting Contest

(Lincoln Trap & Skeet Club Range) ............................... 1 p.m.

Sunday, July 31

Open Class. Horse Show (East Arena) ...... ..... ......... . ... .. . 8 a.m.

Monday, Augyst 1

, 4-H Horse Check-In (Coliseum Office) ................ 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

4-H Horse Show - Dressage Classes (Coliseum) ............ B a.m.

4-H Horse Judging Contest (Coliseum) .... , .................... 'J p.m.

Entry time for all stationary exhibits

(4-H Building) ........ ... .......... ......................... .......... . 4-8 p.m.

Entry time for horticulture exhibits

(Farmland Building) .... ................................. . ........ .. . 4-8 p.m. .. Tuesday. August 2

Judging of exhibits .................................................... 8 a.m.

English Horse Show (Coliseum) ...... ....... . .. .. .. .. .... .. ....... 8 a.m.

Animal check-in (sheep, swine, rabbits,

& poultry must be entered at this time) ..... .. .......... ... .4-8 p.m.

Sheep Weigh-In (North Barn) ..................... .............. 4-8 p.m.

Special Interest Horse Activities .................................. 7 p.m.

Wednesday, August 3

All animals must be in place .... .... .... ................... " .. 8-11 a.m.

4-H Western Horse Showmanship Contest

(Coliseum) ............... " ......... .. . ,,, .............. .... .. ............ B a.m.

4-H Household Pets Check-In

(Demo Complex A & B)"" .. ... " .................... " .... 9-10 :30 a.m.

Open Class Pigeon Judging

(Lancaster Building)." .... " " ...... . ....... " ..... " ... .... .... ,,9:30 a.m.

4-H Pigeon Judging (Lancaster Building)." .. "." ... " ... !3:30 a.m.

Open Class Poultry Judging

(LalJcaster Building) .. " ..... " ................................. .. .... 10 a.m.

4-H Horse Halter Classes (Coliseum) ... " ................... " 10 a.m.

HERDSMANSHIP BEGINS ......... : ............ " .......... " ...... 11 a.m.

Exhibits open to public ............................... " ............. 11 a.m.

4-H Household Pets Show

(Demo Complex A & B)" ...... ... ..... .. ........................... 11 a.m.

VIP Luncheon (Beef Pit) ......... ................................... 12 p.m. 4-H Dairy Goat Judging Contest

Beef Weigh-In (North Barn) ....................................... 12 p.m. (North Arena) ...... ................................................. 3:30 p.m.

4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest ............................... 12 p.m. Dog Quiz Bowl (Demo Complex C) ........ . ...................... 5 p.m.

Carnival ............................................................. 12-1 0 p.m. Pork Barbecue (Beef Pit) ............................................. 5 p.m.

4-H Performance Swine Weigh-In (North Barn) .... .. ........ 1 p.m. Rabbit Specialty Classes - Dress-Up,

4-H Swine Weigh-In (North Barn) ............. ............... 2:30 p.m. Best Pair, PeeWee, Showmanship

4-H Sheep Lead (North Arena) ......... ...... ... .................. 3 p.m. & Awards (Lancaster Bui/ding) ............. .. .... .. .. ..... . ....... 6 p.m.

Horse Trail Show (Coliseum) ....................................... 3 p.m. Release Rabbits ......................................................... 6 p.m.

Dog Check-In (4-H Bui/ding Arena) ..... ...... ................. 3-4 p.m. Ice Cream Social (Demo Mall) .............................. 6-8:30 p.m.

4-H Poultry Show (Lancaster Building) ......................... 4 p.m. Farm Family Award (East Arena) .............. ; .................. 7 p.m.

4-H Dog Show (4-H Building Arena) ............ ................. 4 p.m. Hay Hauling Contest (East Arena) ...... .......................... 7 p.m.

4-H Sheep Show (North Arena). .................................. 5 p.m. Rodeo (Coliseum) ............ ...................................... 7:30 p.m.

Household Pets Released ......................................... 5-6 p.m. Exhibits close to public ............................................... 9 p.m.

4-H Rabbit Quiz Bowl (Demo Complex C). .................... 6 p.m. Rodeo Dance.,-High Caliber

4-H Cat Quiz Bowl (Demo Complex D). ........................ 6 p.m. (Grandstand) ........................................ . ... 9 p.m.-12:30 a.m.

4-H Rabbit Judging {Demo Complex C) ......................... 7 p.m.

Western Horse Riding Classes (Coliseum) ........... .......... 7 p.m. Saturday. August 6 (Kids Day)

4-H Style Review (Bob Devaney) ......... ........................ 7 p.m. Open Rabbit Entries (Lancaster Building) .................... 6-8 a.m.

LaCrosse & River Rock Family Volkswalk ................................................................. 7 a.m.

Entertainment (East Arena) ....................... ...... 7:30-9:30 p.m. 4-H Short Hair Cat Entries

Exhibits close to public ............................................... 9 p.m. (Demo Complex A & B). ............. ................... 7:30-8:15 a.m.

Open Class Dairy Goat Show (4-H Arena) ..................... 8 a.m.

Thursday. August 4 Open Class Angora Goat Check-In (North Barn) .. . .... ...... 8 a.m.

Livestock exhibitors' breakfast 4-H Demonstrations (Demo Complex C & D) ............ B:30 a.m.

(Demo Mall) ...... ..................... ........................... 6:30-8 a.m. 4-H Short Hair Cat Show

4-H Rabbit Show (Lancaster Building) ... ........................ 8 a.m. (Demo Complex A & B) .......................................... 8:30 a.m.

FairFun Day ........ .. .... ...... ... .... ....... ... ..... ................... 8 a.m. Bicycle Safety Rodeo (parking lot) ................................ 9 a.m.

Exhibits open to public ............................ ................... 9 a.m. Open Class Rabbit Show (Lancaster. Building) ................ 9 a.m.

4-H/FFA Swine Show (North Barn) ...... .. .... .. ...... .. .. ....... 9 a.m. 4-H Dairy Cattle Show (East Arena) ............................. 9 a.m.

Western Horse Show (Coliseum) ................................. 9 a,m. Exhibits open to public ............................................... 9 a.m.

Health Awareness Day (Ag Hall) ........... ............ 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Open Class Sheep Check-In (North Barn) .................... 10 a.m.

EnviroFair (Ag Hall) .. ........................................ 9 a.m.-8 p.m . Open Class Angora Goat Show (North Arena) ............. 10 a.m.

Carnival. ................ .............................................. :12-10 p.m. 4-H Bucket Calf Class Interviews

4-H Rabbit Showmanship (Lancaster Building) ...... . ...... .. 1 p.m. (Livestock Office). ................... ................................ .lO a.m.

4-H Dog Agility Show (East Arena) .............................. 2 p.m. Big Wheel Race (parking lot) ..................................... 11 a.m.

4-H Goat Quiz Bowl (Demo Complex C) ....................... 3 p.m. Open Class Sheep Show (North Arena) ...................... 12 p.m.

4-H Livestock Judging (North Arena) ... .............. .... ...... 3 p.m. Carnival. ............................................................ 12-10 p·.m.

Kiddy Tractor Pull (parking 10t) ............. ... ...... .......... .. ,.4 p.m. 4-H Long Hair Cat Show Entr'ies

Open Class Dog Agility Show (Demo Complex A & B) ...... .......................... 12:30-1: 15 p.m.

(immediately following 4-H show) ..................... ... ....... 4 p.m. Open Class Dairy Cattle Show (East Arena) ........ , ... ...... 1 p.m.

4-H Horse Game Show (Coliseum) .............................. 4 p.m. Cloverbud Show & TeU (Demo Complex Cl ................... 1 p.m.

4-H Rabbit Pet Class (Lancaster Bui/ding) ... .................. 6 p.m. 4-H Bucket Calves (East Arena) .. ............................... 1-4 p.m.

Watermelon Feed (Demo Mall) ........... ~ .................... 6:30 p.m. 4-H Long Hair Cat Show (Demo Complex AB) ........... 1 :30 p.m.

4-H Rabbit Bteeders Choice Sweetwater Family Entertainment

(LancasterBuilding) ... ........................................... . 6:30 p.m. (Youth Complex Mal/) .... , ........................................... 3 p.m.

Exhibits close to public .. ............................................. 9 p.m. Livestock, Dairy Cattle &

Goat Judging Contest Results ..................................... 3 p.m.

Friday. August 5 Exhibits close to public ............................................... 4p.m.

Ship all Swine ................ .... ... ... ..... ....... .. ..... ......... ..... 4 a.m. Mini-Tractor Pull (Dempster Building) ....... ..................... 4 p.m.

Feeder Calves in place ............................ ..................... 7 a.m. Herdsmanship ends & awards ......................... ... ......... 4 p.m.

4-H Goat Show f4-H Arena) ...... . ...... .. ......................... 8 a.m. All 4-H entries released ........................................... :4-6 p.m.

4-H Beef ~how (East Arena) ....................................... 8 a.m. Garden Tractor Pull (East Arena) ...... ........................... .7 p.m.

Exhibits open to public ............................................... 9 a.m. Rodeo (Coliseum) ........... ........................................ 7:30 p.m.

Table Setting Contest fAg Hall) ................................... 9 3.m.

Carnival. ............................................................. 12-1 0 p.m. Sunday. August 7

Open Beef Show Trail Horse Check-In (Branched Oak Lake) ..................... B a.m.

(East Areda-fo//owing 4-H/FFA show} .......................... 2 p.m. Competitive Trail Ride (Branched Oak Lake) ................ .1 0 a.m.

Page 8

Scholarship information-The Farmer's Foundation is a national foundation which gives $1000 stipend to farmers' children entering their freshman year of col­lege. To be eligible for this scholarship you must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or above; your parents/guardians must derive 2/3 of their gross income from a farming source; and you must demonstrate a fi­nancial need. To receive an application, send a self-ad­dressed, stamped envelope to: The Farmer's Founda­tion, PO Box 695, Alliance, NE 69301-0695.

~ Ambassadors-Meeting on Thursday, August 11, 7 p.m. See you there!

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• Remember the Nebraska State Fair runs from August (.... 26 through September 5:· JoiR.the fu.nand see what

'~U; 4-H memb~rs across our gre~t state can do!

Discounts, Discounts, Discounts! House of Fabrics is offering a 10% discount to 4-H members and a 20% discount to 4-H leaders. Just go in and tell them this is for your 4-H project and they'll give you a discount! Thanks House of Fabrics for supporting the 4-H pro­gram! (AMM)

Farmer·s CO-Op of Waverly supports 4-H livestock exhibitors

During the four days of the fair, 4-H members exhibiting large animals stay pretty close to their animals, as they groom them, watch over them and take care of herdsman ship duties. In recognition of their efforts, the Farmer's Coop of Waverly sponsors an exhibitor breakfast one morning of the fair. Sleepy 4-H members gather at the 4-H Rock Cafe for a meal of pancakes, eggs, sausage, juice and milk-a welcome change from their usual fare.

Sev~ral years ago, John Tvrdy, former fairboard member,initiated the event. Currently, Cal Ward, fairboard member, coordinates the event with the Coop. We congratulate Harold Hummel, manager, and the board of directors of the Farmer's Co-op of Waverly for their support of 4-H and for brightening the day of the livestock exhibitors at the fair. (LJ)

TheNEBLINE August 1994

Rock Creek Ranchers celebrate Amid decorations of green and

white with liberal sprinklings of 4-H clovers, the Rock Creek Ranchers 4-H Club gathered June 18, 1994 at the Lancaster County Bank meeting room in Waverly to celebrate 40 years as an organized 4-H club. Seated at tables adorned with 4-H placemats, plates, cups and 4-H favors, former members and leaders chatted excitedly with current and future leaders and members of the club. Pictures and memorabilia related to the club were displayed and indications were strong that the club will be· around for another 40 or more years.

Current members of the club acted as hosts, distributed door prizes, waited on tables, and cut and served the cake. It was impressive to watch experienced 17-year-old 4-H members work along side 9-1 O-year-old members just beginning their 4-H careers. Everyone was involved and it was obvious that a great deal of mentoring happens in the club.

The Rock Creek Ranchers is currently led by Marty Minchow with help from Jason Minchow, junior leader; Jim and Mary Fessler, sheep leaders; Pat Heather, photography leader; Wayne Heather, aero space and horse leader; Cheryl Landon, beef leader; Jerry Minchow, wildlife leader; and Harry Muhlbach, swine leader. Diversity and involvement seem to be the keys to success for the Rock Creek Ranchers. A1l4-H ages, both male and female, projects involving large animals, as well as, proj ects as diverse as photography, model rocketry, baking, gardening, and woodworking are part of the diversity. Involvement of parents and older 4-H members form the other component. A tradition of excellence and a knowledge that 4-H can and does make a differ­ence in the lives of the youth involved make for a winning combination.

Congratulations Rock Creek Ranchers! (Ll)

Former leaders of the Rock Creek Ranchers 4-H club. Left to right, Cheryl Landon, Dale Johnson, Wayne Nielsen, Vernon Larsen, Ed Tvrdy and Jim Fessler.

Rock Creek Ranchers celebrate their 40th year as a 4-H Club.

liThe Judging Contest·· Once the dust had settled and all the classes were finally done, the judging team stood waiting to see which of them had won'.

County fair: Olympics for dogs? Their confidence was evident 'til they saw they blew a class, and they felt they had to leave the official judge harassed.

It was fun to watch contestants and the looks of their surprise, when the very youngest entrant walked off with the first prize. A new event at this year's 4-H

dog show is the dog agility class. Racing against the clock, 4-H

members' dogs climb a ramp to a 4 1/2 foot high cat walk, climb

. down, and then climb a 6 foot high A-frame (no jumping allowed), walk to the top of a teeter-totter. and ride it down.

Mistakes don't bother anyone, they are anticipated with glee as the crowd rolls in laughter at the clownish antics of the dogs and youth.

There are up to 16 obstacles

variety of hurdles.

including tunnels, a pole weavmg and pause table, tire Jump, and a

There will also be obedience and showmanship classes.

Come watch the youth and their dogs Thursday, August 4,4

NEBllNE RBBS (Remote Bulletin Board System)

Free access to Extension inforrnation!

(402) 441 ... 114 300-2400 baud .24 hours a day

p.m., Youth Complex at State Fair Park.

An open class dog agility show will be held Thursday, August 4, following the 4-H show, east arena, for participants 10 years old or older. CDS)

But everyone was happy when they left for home that night, the losers smug to know the judge was wrong and they were right..

-Nancy Swarts

Lancaster County fair: liThe journeyll County fair is not just another

activity or show. It is a youth development experience, a time for youth to show the results of their efforts and a time for families to come together in celebration. For some youth, county fair is a destination toward which they have been traveling for a long time. They have a lot at stake-a lot of time sweat, and dreams.

Every youth would like to be

"learning by doing," the team with ideas for new projects, work with family and friends, the County fair is sometimes viewed satisfaction of accomplishment are as the end of the journey. How-all what 4-H and county fairs are ever, it can be viewed as the

about. When any @eginning Of1995'S j ourney. judging takes place, it .~ .. ', County fair is an opportu-is only one person's ~~" nity for families to take time opinion, one :. ""-\2 ) out from their busy indi-person's perception. vidual schedules and work

If any lot or class .-- _ together towards common were - goals and come home a

stronger family. County fair is a time to build

family memories and to make friends and build

first, to win a purple l~~::;;Q~~~ ribbon. What goes '''___--

relationships. Long after the fair is over, just driving through the empty State Fair Park will bring back fond

through their minds as they prepare for the fair? Some know that they could have done more, could have worked harder, started sooner, been more particular. Most believe they have done their best. Often both youth and parents have unrealistic expectations. Some think they should have been winners when they weren't. Why doesn't everyone win? They do!

The journey to county fair, the

placed by 10 different judges, there could be 10 different placings. Parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, and friends can reassure each 4-H member and let them know that they did a good job and they are a winner.

What can be done differently next year? County fair is an opportunity to look at other 4-H members' proj ects and come up

memories of fairs gone by. Don't put too much emphasis

on the purple ribbon or on winning this year. Instead, try to help kids develop honesty and integrity, good sportsmanship, and good work ethics. Work together as a family team, have fun, and make some good family memo­ries. Enjoy the county fair! (DS)

August 1994 TheNEBLINE

Top ten tidbits to remember about the county fairl

As you know, the fair is right under our nose. To help you not forget anything and to keep you informed, we've got it right here for you .

1. Remember, entry day for all static exhibits is Monday, August 1, 4-8 p.m., in the Youth Complex, upstairs.

2. Many exhibits need supporting information cards, recipes, etc. These must accompany your exhibit when you bring it to the fair. Remem­ber to read the fair book and find out what you need.

3. Make sure all entry tags are fully completed with all the correct information. Write in pen and make sure that what you write goes through all copies.

Small animal show is no small affair

What is a cavy? How can you tell if your cat has worms? What is

a eat's tail for? Come to the I..aocaster County Fair

and stop in to observe the house­hold pets and cat shows. Find out the answers to these questions and others and- have a great time!

In 4-H projects, youngsters experience the pride of owning and/or being responsible for the care of animals. At the small animal shows, judges will examine the health of these pets, as well as , determine knowlooge gained by the exhibitors.

The judge inspects the cage, tank, or appropriate environment. This area should be dean, organized and include food and water. Many times, exhibitors bring favorite blankets or toys so their animals adapt more readily to the strange surroundings. Of course, the environment must be safe, both for the animals and the exhibitors.

In the showmanship category, exhibitors answer questions about their animals and the care of their pets. The judge may ask about nutrition and diet, vaccinations, grooming information (if appro­priate), health, and other general knowledge and experience questions. Through this mini­presentation, exhibitors improve their communication skills and gain self-confidence.

So, come on down and visit the household pet show Wednesday, August 3, at 11 a.m. The short hair cat show begins at 8:30 a.m., Saturday, August 6, and the long hair cat show begins at 1 :30 p.m. See you there! (ALH)

4. The fair does not officially open to the public until Wednes­day, August 3, noon. You will not be able to find out what ribbon you received until then.

S. Style Revue Participants­your clothing exhibits will not be put on display until after the public style revue.

6. 4-H members involved in CATS-remember that a veteri­narian check and immunization check will be done at check in time. The veterinarian decision is final!

7. Support the 4-H food booths during the county fair! The Feed Bag in the coliseum, The Rock Cafe by the demonstration mall, and The Snack Shack in the Youth Complex would appreciate

your patronage! They need _your help too! Contact any 4-H Council member about helping out. THANKS!

8. Make an effort as a family to visit one new exhibit, display, or contest this year. You may find something interesting and appealing. Go on, check it out!

9. All static exhibits will be released Saturday, August 6, 4-6 p.m. If you know you cannot come at this time, have a friend, leader, or neighbor pick your exhibit up for you. All items left at the fair will be brought back to the office. If they are not picked up by September 1, they will be don"ated to charity! (AMM)

Pygmies at the fair Pygmies, Angoras, Nubians, Oberhaslis, Recorded Grades,

Saanens, Alpines, LaManchas, and Toggenburges. Come to the Lancaster County Fair and see if you can identify these breeds of goats.

The goat judging contest will be Wednesday, August 3, in the afternoon and the goat show will be Thursday. This show includes a dress-up class that promises to be lots of fun. Come join the fun when the goats show their stuff August 4 at the Lancaster County Fair. (DS)

April Fogleman and her tour-month-old pigmy goat Dorothy.

Are you an animal lover? If you like farm animals, why not participate in one, or all, of the

county fair judging contests? You don't have to be emolled in the 4-H projects to try your hand at judging animals like dairy cattle, swine, sheep, beef cattle, goats, rabbits, or horses at the county fair: These contests are designed to be learning experiences llnd participation can be lots of fun, even if you are not emolled in 4-H come and judge for the fun of it and see what you can learn! For more information, call 441-7180.

Page 9

4-Her Allison Umberger poses with her horse, Two-Eyed Dancer, after winning the Pinto World Champion Trail-youth division.

ORSE BITS County Fair-Horse Miinagement and Stabling

The total number of horses entered in the fair could exceed the available space. Due to this fact , some specialized horses used for only one event may be granted approval to stall for a shorter duration. Lancaster County 4-H VIPS Chairperson Kit Dimon will serve as the designated show committee member who has the responsibility to fill out and approve the early release form required for any horses to leave State Fair Park. Also, early releases may be granted for hardships and emergencies. Trailer parking will not be allowed next to the coliseum or the south bam. Trailer parking will be available in the truck lot north of the creek or behind the beef bam. If you have any questions, please contact Kit Dimon or Ward Shires.

Barn Manager and Club Presidents Diane Schoen, dressage pony club instmctor, will be bam manager

for the Lancaster County Fair. Diane has the responsibility to ensure that 4-H leaders, parents, and members are aware of mles, regulations, and responsibilities involved with stalls and bam area items. Club presidents will work with Diane to solve any questions/problems that may arise in the barn area.

1994 Lancaster County 4-H Horse Awards Banquet The Lancaster County 4-H Horse Awards Banquet will be August 9

at 6:30 p.m. The potluck dinner will include a slide show and special awards to be given to horse show winners, volunteers, and many others . Please bring one main dish, one side dish, or dessert and your table service. Drinks and dessert will be provided by the Lancaster County 4-H Horse VIPS. Please come to this fun and social event, at the Lancaster Extension Conference Center, following the county fair.

Horse magazines available If your 4-H club is interested in checking out equine magazines,

such as The Quarter Horse Journal, Appaloosa Journal, The Morgan Horse, Paint Horse Journal, NRHA, The American Saddlebred, and Paint Horse Journal , please contact Michelle Willnerd, 434-8550. (WLS)

1995 Youth Garden Grants are availablel GARDEN

GOSSIP HOTLINE The National Gardening Association is pleased to announce the applications for the 12th annual Youth Garden Grants are available. NGA, a memher­supported non-profit organization based in Burlington, Vermont, will award 300 grants nationwide consisting of tools , seeds, plants, and garden products to winning applicants, for use during the 1995 growing season.

" ' . : 1 , - ,- ~

Programs involving at least 15 children between the ages of 3-18 years are eligible, with consider­ation given for educational, social, or environmental programming; sustainability; community support; strong leadership; need, and innovation. In 1994, 200 schools, youth groups and community organizations from across the United States each received more than $500 worth of materials and

"

; " -- j

products contributed by participat­ing companies from the lawn and garden industry.

"Gardening serves as a vehicle for learning about environmental stewardship, food production, problem solving and teamwork, while also developing pride, self­esteem and delight in feeding and beautifying the community. Besides, it can be fun!", says David Young. NGA's director of

Youth Garden Grants. To receive an application,

write: Garden Grants Dept. PS, National Gardening Association, 180 Flynn Ave ., Burlington, VT 05401. Please include the follow­ing information: name, 4-H club, address, and phone number. Deadline for completed applica­tions is November 15, 1994. FAX: 802/863-5962. (LJ) 441-7179

TheNEBLINE August 1994

Prepare. grain bins to·· prevent insect infestations

Fo·r your kid's sake ... and yours-practice riding lawn mower safety

Now is the time to think about cleaning and inspecting grain bins before newly harvested grain is stored. It is costly to have insect infestations in stored grain because the expense to produce the grain has already been incurred, and significant price penalties may occur when damages grain goes to market. Insect infestations in stored grain may not be noticed unless the bins are inspected regularly.

There is a seasonal aspect to insect infestations in stored grain. Because insects are active at warmer temperatures, infestations can explode in the warmer months. Insignificant amourtts of old grain, chaff, dust and other debris can harbor a significant infestation. Remove leftover grain from the bin and sweep and vacuum the walls. If long-term storage (over ten months) is a possibility, consider treating the cleaned bin with a' protective insecticide two to three weeks before the new grain is added. Apply the spray to the point of runoff to as many surfaces as possible, especially joints, seams, cracks, ledges and comers, including outside the bin at the foundation and around doors, ducts and fans. Malathion, methoxychlor, Tempo or Re\dan may be used for this purpose. Use Reldan only when sorghum will be stored. Do not apply Tempo or methoxychlor directly to grain. Read and follow label directions carefully. Because insects can live in the grain debris and dust that accumulates under a perforated floor, the grain in the void under a perforated floor should be removed and the area should be treated. Spilled grain outside the bin should be cleaned up to eliminate another infestation source.

Betore grain is harvested, clean all grain handling equipment

Septic

including augers, combines, trucks and wagons, and remove old grain residue. Combines should be adjusted to minimize grain damage and maximize removal of fines and other foreign material. Many common grain insects feed only on broken or cracked kernels and other materials, not sound kernels. Be especially careful when harvesting and handling grain from stressed crops because this grain is more easily damage.

After the grain has been leveled

in the bin, topdress the surface with both Dipel and malathion, or Actellic C corn and sorghum), or Reldan (sorghum only). Oipel works against Indian meal moths, while mabthion is needed for beetle control. Actellic and Reldan control both types of insects. If Indian meal moths have been a problem in the past, use Vapona resin strips (one strip per 1,000 cubic feet of air space) in the bin space above the grain. Do not treat soybeans with malathion, Reldan or Actellic. Stored soybeans rarely experience insect problems and few insecticides are labeled for use on soybeans.

Many insect infestations in stored grain can be traced to poor storage practices that results in moldy grain. To reduce the

From page 4

consider the practicality of installing a garbage disposal. A 900-gallon septic tank is recommended for a home with three

bedrooms. If six people reside in a three-bedroom house, Table 1 shows the tank should be pumped about every 1.3 years. If the same system serves a family of two, the tank would be ready for pumping about every five years.

It is importa~t to note that the soil absorption field will not fail immediately when a tank contains too much sludge accumulation. However, the septic tank is no longer protecting the soil absorption field from solids. Continued neglect will result in failure and require replace­ment of the soil absorption field. In some cases, replacement of the absorption field may not be possible due to sIte limitations. CDJ)

:ab1e l. ESTIMATED SEPTIC TANK PUMPING FREQUENCI2S IN YEARS (FOR YEAR-ROUND RESIDENCE)

Tank Household S~ze (Number of 'People) Size

(gal) 2 5 9 10

~-s.a-2.6 1.5 1.0 0.7 0.4 "0:3--0.2- 0.1 750 9.1 4.2 2.6 1.8 1.3 1.0 0.7 0.6 0.4 0.3 900 11.0 5.2 3.3 2.3 1.7 1.3 1.0 0.8 0.7 0.5

1,Cl00 12.4 5.9 3.7 2.6 2.0 1.5 1.2 1.0 0.8 0.7 :,25C 15.6 7.5 4.8 3.4 2.6 2.0 1.7 1.4 1.2 1.0 :,5Q'J 18.9 9.1 5.'9 4.2 3.3 2.6 2.1 1.8 1.5 1.3 1, -':' J 22.1 10.7 6:9 5.0 3.9 3.1 2.6 2.2 1.9 1.6 2:, ::C 25.4 12.4 8.0 5.9 4.5 3.7 3.1 2.6 2.2 2.0 2,25(; 28.6 14.0 9.1 6.7 5.2 4.2 3.5 3.;) 2.6 2.3 2,SQ0 31. 9 15.6 10.2 7.5 5.9 4.8 4.0 4.0 3.0 2.6

ti~:.e: More frequent purnp~ng needed ~f garbage d1sposal ~s used.

incidence of molds and insects, cool and dry the grain immedi­ately after combining. As stored grain gradually cools down in the fall and as it warms again in the spring, moisture may accumulate. in the cooler parts of the grain, usually on the surface in the winter and the center of the mass in spring. Moisture will cause mold to grow and "hot spots" to form within the grain mass. Moldy grain is attractive to some insects and infestations will occur in these areas within the grain mass.

To prevent this problem, aeration systems should be used in the fall and spring to gradually cool or warm the grain throughout the bin to eliminate temperature gradients. The aeration system should be initiated as soon as outside air temperature differs 10 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit from the grain temperature. Once the fan has been turned on, it must be operated continuously until the temperature has moved entirely through the grain mass.

If grain is still in storage when temperatures are above 50 degrees Fahrenheit, grain should be inspected regularly for insect infestations. Stored grain repre­sents a major investment. Precau­tions taken before, and as grain is put into storage, can pay dividends later by helping to assure that quality is maintained. (BPO)

Homeowner$ generally use walk-behind power lawn mowers to cut small plots of grass. Many suburban and country residents rely on riding mowers, lawn tractors and garden tractors to maintain the land­scape.

Although many have driven riding mowers and tractors without injury, others have not been so fortunate. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates 25,300 injuries and 75 people are killed each year from riding lawn mowers, lawn tractors and gar­den tractors.

One out of five lawn mower deaths involves a young child. These deaths occur when a child falls off the mower and is run over or when the child falls into a mower's path. ,Machine tipovers or flying debris are other cases of death.

Deaths and injuries can be reduced with a few simple precautions. • "NO seat, NO rided" Refuse to let children ride on lawn ma­

chines. Keep children supervised and away from playing in the area where riding machines are being used.

• Never allow a child to operate riding mower equipment, even when supervised.

• Clear the area to be mowed of objects like toys, chains and rocks before mowing. The mowing blade may pick up and throw these ob­jects.

• Be alert for children at corners, by shrubs and trees, along walks, etc.

• Be prepared to stop your engine when children enter the mowing area.

Other success hints for riding lawn machine operators: • Read your manual before operating riding lawn machines. Ninety

percent of injuries occur to "first time" operators. • Watch for holes and hidden hazards. Wear your seatbett if one is

provided. • Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. If you do,

look back and down first. • To avoid overturning, mow up and down slopes, not across. Tum

slowly and gradually downhill on slopes. (DV)

Control broadleaf weeds to aid with harvest Late season broadleaf weed control in com is possible with 2,4-D. Such a treatment could make harvest­

ing easier and reduce weed seed production. Treatments should be made no later than flowering stage of weeds for control of seed productions. Com can suffer yield reductions from 2,4-D applied during the flowering period. Generally, 2,4-0 use on corn can be resumed after the silk turns brown. These late 2,4-D treatments will not cause lodging or stalk brittleness in the crop.

A one lb/acre application of 2,4-D will control many large broadleaf weeds including pigweed, sunflower and cocklebur, but will be weak on velvetleaf. The weeds become more difficult to control as they mature. Ester formulations are likely to perform better than amines; however, esters produce vapors that can damage sensitive crops, gardens and ornamentals. Not all brands of 2,4-D are labeled for this use.

Harvest aids for grain sorghum include Chlorate 3 or Leafex-3. Both products are sodium chlorate with a fire retardant. Good coverage is required for satisfactory performance. Applications at 1.5 to 2 gallons/acre should be applied seven to ten days before harvest. COV)

Groundwater It is not easy to purify ground­

water that has become contami­nated. Treatment of groundwater with filters on domestic taps, for example, can be expensive and is not always entirely successful. The best policy is to keep hazardous substances out of groundwater in the first place.

The only sure way to avoid contaminating groundwater with pesticides is not to use them, but farmers have few practical alternatives to some of these substances. On the other hand, applying a pesticide should not be viewed as the only possible solution to a pest problem. Pest control methods should be selected to achieve effective, practical, economical, and environmentally sound control. The last of these considerations is as important as the first three, and protecting groundwater is an important part of environmentally sound pest management.

When pesticides are used, the potential for groundwater con­tamination can be minimized if label directions are followed meticulously and irrigation schedules are well-planned and followed. The pesticide label is the

From page 4

critical link between the extensive testing of the pesticide before it is registered for use and its actual use in the field. If label directions are carefully followed, problems of groundwater contamination by pesticides will be minimized. (DJ)

Bacteria pose health hazard While municipal wells are

regulated by state and federal standards, private wells are not.

Owners of a private water supply are responsible for ensur­ing that their water supply is safe.

The most common contami­nant found in private wells is bacteria. The only way to know if your water contains harmful bacteria is to have it tested.

Bacteria in drinking water can be hazardous to human and animal health. Sources of bacterial pollution include runoff from feedlots, pastures, and other land areas where animal wastes are deposited, and the discharge from

septic tanks and sewage tryatment facilities. Human and domestic animal wastes are primary sources of bacteria found in water.

The bacterial safety of drink­ing water is checked by testing for coliform bacteria, which are commonly associated with human and livestock waste. By observing coliform bacteria, the increase and decrease of other disease-causing bacteria also can be estimated. The coliform bacteria may not neces­sarily produce disease, but can indicate the presence of other bacteria, which may cause infections, hepatitis, typhoid fever and other iHnesses., . CDJ)

August 1994 TheNEBLINE Page 11

Bucket calves August 6 Multifamily From page 1

Calves born January I-June 1, 1994, raised by 4-H members ages 8-13, hand fed mild or milk replacer from a bottle or bucket are the stars of the 4-H bucket calf show. .

You can watch these 4-H members show their calves at 1 p.m., . August 6, east arena, State Fair Park.

Immediately following the show is the peewee bucket calf class which is open to any youth that can borrow a calf from one of the 4-H members in the previous class. Everyone in the peewee class receives a red, white, and blue participation ribbon. (DS)

Ben Hatcher (left), age 10, with his bucket calf, Sprite, and Ethan Hatcher (right), age 5, with his lamb, Timmy.

children and grow right along with them through their projects. Marv has been a great supporter for the family. He's always taken an active part in helping his children because he felt it was "good for the kids."

As the garage sale crowd outside grew, I asked the family one last question: "If there's one statement you could make about 4-H that sums up how you feel it's worked in your family, what would it be?" They answered, "4-1-1 makes families work

together, set goals together and cooperate together."

As I got in my car and drove back to Lincoln, I once again saw the signs. "Multifamily Garage Sale." Multifamily had taken on new meaning for me. This was a family headed by loving parents­whose children are now great parents with children-who are now learning the same kinds of skills they learned while growing up. They work together and play together. They contribute to their

communities in meaningful ways. The family reflects many different personalities, interests, and talents-and each family member brings a unique quality to the multifamily. It is nice to think that 4-H and Extension have played a significant role in the development of this solid, productive family. As an Extension staff, we would like to thank the Navratils for their support of 4-H and for the good example they set for all of us. Goodjob! (AMM)

State 4-H Leaders Forum planning Volunteers wanted! The

1995 4-H Leaders Forun1 is just in the planning stages. There are opportunities to help with all aspects of the forum. Volunteer committee chairs and members who enjoy working with a team to

pull off a major event are needed. Prior experience is not necessary. Volunteers just need to be enthusi­astic about 4-H and want the opportunity to impact other volunteers from across the state. Time commitments vary according

to the committee the volunteer is involved in. The State 4-H Leaders Forum is scheduled for January 20 and 21, 1995, New World Inn, Columbus. If you are interested in volunteering, please call LaDeane. (LJ)

O~~RA1/~ 8EXT~NSION

\Jlt/~ Head Hearl Hands Health ~

-. -. -- -II..----____ ~ __

Food Safe guards on serving lines.

4. Inadequate reheating Cooked foods may become

contaminated after heating. If these foods are not reheated to at least 165°F, microorganisms may not be destroyed. . - Precooked foods purchased for reheating should be heated to at least 165°F.

- Leftovers should not be llsed i t1 temporary food serv ice establishments.

- Leftdver food prepared for serving should be discarded.

5~ .Improper hot holding Hot foods held below 140°F

encourage the rapid growth of microorganisms .. Foods on a buffet table should be checked often.

- Use warming plates to keep food at or above 140°F.

- Use a thennometer to measure the temperature of the hot food.

- Do not mix a fresh hot batch of a food item to an existing item. , - Prepare several small

batches rather than one hirge batch to replenish food. ~ Do not leave hot food set at

room temperature for more than tw.o hours.

6. Contaminated raw food or ingredients .

Foods which come into contact with dirt and manure (eggs and produce grown with manure as a fertilizer) will contain a large number of microorganisms. Cracked eggs are also considered contaminated.

-- Wash foods with water to remove dirt and manure.

- Do not use cracked eggs. - Prevent rodents, insects,

birds, animals, etc. from having contact with food.

- Store chemicals (cleaning solutions) away from food. Avoid using chemical insecticides to control insects.

7. Foods from unsafe resources Illnesses have been reported

from eating fish or seafood obtained from sources with unsafe water.

- Obtain foods from reliable sources.

- Thoroughly cook fish and other foods that may contain a large number of microorganisms.

8. Improper cleani,ng of equip­ment and utensils

Food left on equipment and utensils help microorganisms survive for a period of time. When the equipment or utensil is used microorganisms will be transferred to the food.

- ,D se clean dishes and utensils for food preparation.

- Wash with hot soapy water - Use utensils to handle and and sanitize equipment after use. serve food rather than hands. If equipment has been stored for a .. ~ - Do not reuse disposable long period of time, wash and items such as plastic bags, plastic sanitize before use. spoons, etc.

- Wash equipment with hot soapy water after each food use when using the same piece of equipment for preparing several foods .

-'- Wash and sani ti ze food contact surfaces; for example: counters, tables, rdiigerators, dc.

9. Cross contamination from raw to cooked foods

Juices from raw meat and poultry which come in contact . with cooked food may recontami­nate the cooked foods'with . microorganisms. Raw fruits and' vegetables also can contaminate cooked foods if these foods are not properly cleaned.

- Keep cooked and raw foods separated in food storage areas.

- Thaw raw meats and poultry in the refrigerator in a way so juices do not drip on other . foods.

- Wash hands, utensils and food contact surfaces often when handling raw meat, poultry, and eggs.

10 . .Inadequate cooking Eating undercooked meats has

resulted in foodborne illness outbreaks. The most serious cases of inadequate cooking results from not properly processing canned low ac id foods may contain the deadly toxin that is produced when spores grow into bacteria (lnd multiply. . - Cook ground meats,

poultry, fish, and eggs thoroughly. - Cook poultry to all internal

temperature 180°F; pork to 160°F; ground beef to 160°F.

- Home canned foods should not be used for temporary food service events.

Transporting Food Occasi<mally food is prepared

at one location and transported to a serving site. Safe food handling practices are critical, not only during preparation, but also when transporting food. Cold foods must be kept cold (40°F) and hot foods must be kept hot (140°F or above). Use insulated carrying containers that maintain the food

From page 7

condition. Do not transport food in vehicles that have been used to carry pets, trash, chemicals, . fertilizers, or pesticides without thoroughly cleaning the compart­ment or vehicle. Foods and animals should not be transported together.

When food is delivered to the intended location, inunediately store food to maintain the proper temperature and to prevent contamination.

Sanitizers-Good housekeeping is impor­

tant. Many types of cleaning and sanitizing solutions are available. Below are solutions made with chlorine bleach if washing dishes by hand and when cleaning food related surfaces. Store chemicals away from food.

Washing dishes by hand: 112 tablespoon chlorine/gallon of rinse water. Change rinse water often. Air dry.

Washing tabletops, counters, etc: 1 tablespoon chlorine.

Wash surfaces first to remove soil before sanitizing.

Contact your local health department for specific infonna­tion on foods safety for temporary [009 service establishments. -Use food containers

designed for food for food storage; don't use containers which originally contained cleaning products.

at the appropriate temperature. All Source: adapted from materials -_vehicles .used for transporting food _ developed byJulieAlbr.echi, . _ .

should be kept in good sanitary Extension Food Specialist. (AH)

Page 12 TheNEBLINE

NEBLINE RBBS (Remote Bulletin Board System)

Free access to Extellsioll

illforlnation!

300-2400 baud 24 hours

a day

(402) 441-7149

Grants or low interest loans are available to low and moderate income rural Lancaster County residents to make repairs to owner occupied homes.

Repairs are restricted to addressing hazards to health and safety. For example: furnace, duct work, roofs, foundations, wells, bathrooms, etc.

Requirements: One y~ar residency prior to date of applica­tion. Meet income guid~lines .. Land contracts must be registered.

This program is provided by the Lancaster County Board of Commissioners and administcred by Lincoln Action Program.

August 1

Crisis Home Repairs

for Laneaser County homeowners For more information, contact Judy Adams, Lancaster County Rural Coordinator, Lincoln Action Program (LAP), 2202 South 11 th Street, Lincoln, NE 68502, or call 471-4515.

Lancaster County Fair Entry Day for Stationary Exhibits-State Fair Park ........................ 4:00-8:00 p.m.

August 3-6 Lancaster County Fair~State Fair Park

August 4 Agricultural Pesticide Container Recycling-State Fair Park. ..................................... 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. EnviroFair-State Fair Park .

. Health Awareness Day-State Fair Park

August 6 Ak-Sar-Ben Entries Deadline Date

August 8 Wheat Variety Trial Satellite Conference ................................................................... 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

August 9 Horse Awards Activity .................................................................................................................... 6:30 p.nl.

August 9 & 10 55 Alive Mature Driving Course .................................................................................................... 2:30 p.m.

August 11 Ambassador Meeting ...................................................................................................................... 7:00 p.nl.

August 12 Agricultural Pesticide Container Recycling-Hayman 's Fertilizer, Holland ................ 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

August 13-15 Dismal River Canoe Weekend-Halsey

August 16 4-H Superintendents Dinner-Location to be announced

August 19 Agricultural Pesticide Container Recycling-Farmers Cooperative~ Emerald ............ 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

August 22 Abandoned Well Plugging Demonstration-Hayman 's Fertilizer, Holland .................................. 6:30 p.m.

August 22-23 Integrated Resource Management and Grazing Workshop (Kearney) ........................................... 8:00 a.m.

August 2~ Agricultural Pesticide Container Recycling .................................................................. 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

August 26-September 5 Nebraska State Fair·--State Fair Park

September 2 Agricultural Pesticide Container Recycling ................................................................... 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

September 3 Compo sting Demonstration (Universi(v Place Park) .................................................... 1 :30 p.m.-3:00 p.m.

September 6 4-H Council Meeting ..................................................................................................................... 7:00 p.nl.

TheNEBLINE Nebraska Cooperative Extension Newsletter

lancaster County

August 1994

The NEBLINE is produced and edited by Jeff Gaskins, Extension Assis­tant, Media &' Marketing. It is published monthly by the University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension in Lancaster County, 444 Cherrycreek Rd., Lincoln, Nebraska, 68528-1507. For more information, contact Jeff Gaskins or Mark Hendricks at (402) 441-7180.

Don D. Miller Extension Educator, Lancaster County

/ifaMd.~ Mark D. Hendricks Extension Assistant, Computing and Communication

Notice! All programs and events listed in this newsletter will be held at the

Lancaster Extension Conference Center unless noted otherwise. Use of commercial and trade names does not imply approval or constitute en~ dorsement by the University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension in Lancaster County. Articles written by the staff of the University of Ne­braska Cooperative Extension in Lancaster County may be reprinted without special permission if the source is acknowledged. For reprint in­formation about other articles in the NEBLINE contact the source listed in the article.

Contributing staff:

Lorene Bartos, Extension Educator Corey Brubaker, Extension Educator Soni Ericksen, Extension Assistant Jeff Gaskins, Extension Assistant Arlene Hanna, Extension Assistant Mark Hendricks, Extcnsion Assistant Alice Henneman, Extension Educator Don janssen, Extcnsion Educator LaDcane Jha, Extension Educator Mary Jane McReynolds, Extension Assistant Don D. Miller, Extension Educator Ann Marie Moravec, Extension Assistant Barb Ogg, Assistant Extension Educator Warder Shires, Extension Educator Dave Swarts, Extension Assistant Dave Varner, Extension Educator

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